"Deciding the best right-backs in the world is getting ever more difficult. 30 years ago, you'd be looking purely at the best defenders playing out wide, before attacking wing-backs become fashionable in the 2000s: fast-forward to today and we're looking at some of the most athletic and multi-faceted footballers in any side. So let's crack on with the best players in the world right now able to slot in at right-back"
"Each player was rated a score from 10 to one based on where they ranked on each expert's list, with minimal points awarded for categories such as crosses into the penalty area, progressive passing, tackles won and a percentage of dribblers tackled. Treat yourself to your favourite World Cup 2026 shirt From there, over 40 right-backs made the longlist with the eventual winner receiving 16 points more than second place (it wasn't particularly close at the top)."
Right-backs have evolved from pure wide defenders into athletic, multi-faceted footballers who often perform as attacking wing-backs. An expert panel ranked right-backs using three categories: historic achievements, current form and technical brilliance. Each expert submitted a top-ten, with players scored from 10 to 1 per ranking. Metrics considered included crosses into the penalty area, progressive passing, tackles won and dribblers tackled percentage. Over 40 right-backs made the longlist, and the eventual winner finished 16 points clear of second. The same criteria were applied across ten positional lists from goalkeepers to strikers.
Read at www.fourfourtwo.com
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