It used to be considered low praise to call someone one of the best left-backs. The worst player on the team used to be placed at left-back. Left-back was the position for anyone on the team without a defined job. If you didn't have a left foot, no problem.
Well, times are different now. No longer are fullbacks the unsung heroes. In fact, some of the players on this list are crucial to the organizational structures of both their club and nation. Not just defenders, but also crucial attackers, makers, scorers, takers of set pieces, and multitaskers.
The question is Who is the best left back in the World ? I guess you all wish to know who sits at the top of this table so stick on to your reading and discover the best left back in the world.
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Who is the best Left back in the World ?
Across the Premier League , Bundesliga , Serie A , La Liga Ligue 1 and many other Leagues, we have tried to sort and we can say that the best left back right now is Oleksandr Zinchenko who currently plays for Arsenal.
Ranking the Best Left Backs In The World
Left backs play a vital role in modern football, combining defensive solidity with attacking prowess. They are responsible for shutting down opponents on the flanks while also contributing to the team's attacking play.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 best left backs in the world, highlighting their exceptional skills, defensive abilities, and contributions to their respective clubs and national teams.
1. Oleksandr Zinchenko (Arsenal)
Zinchenko has succeeded at left-back this season despite initially being recruited to Arsenal by Mikel Arteta with the idea of putting him in midfield. The Ukrainian is able to control play with his amazing passing while also giving Arsenal a strong foundation from which to defend. He does this by picking up the ball deep and drifting into central areas.
His statistics are also misleading. However, Zinchenko breaks lines with his passing, frequently weighting balls perfectly for Martin Odegaard between the opposition's midfield and defense, or lifting it delicately through to Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka. His one goal and two assists suggest he hasn't been as important for Arsenal as first suggested.
2. Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Hernandez, who was the best left-back in Serie A last season and helped AC Milan score 11 goals in the league (five goals, six assists), is one of the most crucial attacking players for the Italian powerhouses. Hernandez, who is arguably the best dribbler on this list, is a delight to watch when in possession as he challenges opponents and aids in overpowering their defenses.
He performed admirably while filling in for his injured brother Lucas during France's opening World Cup match.
3. Andy Robertson (Liverpool)
Robertson, a Scottish full-back, has consistently displayed his enthusiasm despite Liverpool's struggles this season. Jose Mourinho once claimed that he became exhausted "just by looking at Robertson." It is unquestionably true that the former Hull City player always gives his all.
The delivery of the players on this list is most likely best by the Scotland captain. Even at full sprint speed, his crossing is almost always precise, which makes him an important component of Liverpool's offense.
4. Theo Hernandez (AC Milan)
Hernandez, who was the best left-back in Serie A last season and helped AC Milan score 11 goals in the league (five goals, six assists), is one of the most crucial attacking players for the Italian powerhouses. Hernandez, who is arguably the best dribbler on this list, is a delight to watch when in possession as he challenges opponents and aids in overpowering their defenses.
He performed admirably while filling in for his injured brother Lucas during France's opening World Cup match. Theo demonstrated his skill in front of goal by scoring the game's first goal against Morocco in the semifinal.
5. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich)
Alphonso Davies burst onto the scene with his electrifying pace and versatility. As one of the youngest player on this list, Davies has already achieved remarkable success with Bayern Munich, winning multiple domestic and international titles. His ability to track back quickly and contribute to the attack with his dribbling skills makes him a standout left back.
Davies, a natural winger who yet plays in a more offensive position for his country, is a significant danger moving forward. Defenders frequently become overpowered by his world-class movement and dribbling when he moves to join Leroy Sane on Bayern's left wing. The German is then free to move inside and generate chaos in the box as a result of this. Davies is a strong defender as well; he seldom loses one on ones to his adversaries. Davies has the pace to recover and get the ball back if he is ever defeated, which is quite unlikely.
6. Nathan Ake (Manchester City)
Is Ake really a left-back? Well, no. But no one is really sure who plays where for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, with his 3-2-2-3 formation in possession meaning Ake often ends up covering the left side of pitch whenever City are defending.
Comfortably proficient on the ball, Ake is an assured defender who is ever-reliable when faced with a one-on-one. Not the quickest player in the world, Ake is able to use his intelligence to get across players, with his strength shielding the ball on his safe side, too.
7. Jordi Alba (Barcelona)
Alba was once the epitome of the European left-back, but in recent years, his fame has gradually waned. However, that has more to do with Barcelona's waning as a genuine superpower in Europe than anything he has done personally.
His seven assists in La Liga this season attest to the Spaniard's continued combination of speed, poise, final product, and stunning footwork. Alba's career is nearing to an end at age 33, but thanks to his technical skill, he'll still be able to compete for a few more seasons at the highest level. whilst the fact that 19-year-old Alejandro Balde has broken into the first team, he must now make due as a backup option whilst still playing a crucial role in Xavi's Camp Nou revolution.
8. Ben Chilwell (Chelsea)
a perfect fit Ben Chilwell, who has been playing every week this season, would probably be higher on our list but, alas, he has been limited in his game time due to a hamstring injury sustained in the midst of the season. Chilwell hasn't benefited by splitting duties with Marc Cucurella on the left side, but recent performances have shown that he is Graham Potter's first choice left-back.
But his performance in just 15 inconsistent games—two goals, three assists—has demonstrated his value, with Chelsea always appearing to be a much more accomplished team when he's on the field.
9. Nuno Mendes (PSG)
Portuguese left-back Nuno Mendes is still only 20-years-old, but he is playing at an exceptional level - and it only looks like he's going to get better and better. Highly-regarded for his offensive capabilities, Mendes creates plenty of chances for PSG's plethora of attacking talent, with his intense bursts of speed down the wing providing opportunities for the likes of Messi, Mbappe and Neymar.
10. Alex Sandro (Juventus):
Alex Sandro is a solid left back who excels in both defensive and offensive aspects of the game. With his strong physical presence, excellent positioning, and precise crossing ability, Sandro has been a vital cog in Juventus' defensive setup. His versatility and consistency make him one of the best left backs in the world.
Final Thoughts on Top 10 Best Left Backs in The World Right Now
These top 10 left backs have consistently displayed exceptional skills, defensive solidity, and attacking contributions, making them the best in the world. From Andrew Robertson's relentless work rate to Jordi Alba's lightning speed, each player brings their unique qualities to the game. Whether it's their defensive prowess or their ability to contribute to the attack, these left backs have proven themselves on the biggest stages of football.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best front three in Premier League history?
Firmino forged a formidable relationship alongside Mane and Salah, which was considered as one of the most dangerous attacking trios in the Premier League.
Who is the fastest left back in the world?
Nicknamed “Roadrunner” by his teammates, Alphonso Davies broke the Bundesliga sprint speed record in June 2020, clocking an eye-watering 36.51 km/h (22.6 mph).
Who is the best LB in the Premier League right now?
Andy Robertson and Luke Shaw are the best left backs in the Premier League.