The Premier League has been home to some of the most iconic right-backs in football history, players who have evolved the role into a dynamic force on the pitch. Once viewed primarily as defensive enforcers, the right-back position in the modern game requires versatility, athleticism, and offensive contributions. Gone are the days when these players simply guarded the touchline; today’s right-backs are tasked with sprinting up and down the flank, contributing to attacks, delivering precise crosses, and even scoring goals. As the Premier League continues to showcase global talent, some players have risen above the rest and left an indelible mark on the competition’s history. Here’s a rundown of the best right-backs in Premier League history, both old-school and modern legends, whose influence has shaped the game.

17. Seamus Coleman
Coleman’s rise to prominence at Everton after his £60,000 move from Ireland in the 2009 January window has been nothing short of remarkable. With over 400 appearances for the Toffees, his commitment, leadership, and work rate have made him a standout figure, earning him a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable right-backs.

16. Kieran Trippier
Having played for a variety of clubs including Burnley, Tottenham, and Atletico Madrid, Trippier is best known for his precise delivery from the right flank. His free-kick prowess and consistent performances have earned him a solid place in Premier League history, with a notable period at Newcastle United.

15. John O’Shea
Although not exclusively a right-back, O’Shea’s versatility across the backline for Manchester United was invaluable. His ability to fill in at multiple positions earned him a place in Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary Man United side. O’Shea’s role in several Premier League-winning teams made him a trusted member of the squad.

14. Paulo Ferreira
A key player for Chelsea during their dominant years under José Mourinho, Ferreira was instrumental in securing back-to-back Premier League titles. His defensive discipline and occasional forays forward helped solidify Chelsea’s status as one of the league’s powerhouses.

13. Antonio Valencia
Originally a winger, Valencia’s transition to right-back at Manchester United showcased his adaptability. His speed, strength, and crossing ability made him a formidable opponent for any winger, contributing significantly to Man United’s attacking play from the back.

12. Gary Kelly
A one-club man, Kelly spent 15 years at Leeds United, where he became an essential part of their David O’Leary team which went all the way to the Champions League semi-finals. His attacking instincts and defensive solidity made him an underrated figure in the early years of the Premier League.

11. Stephen Carr
Carr was a consistent presence at Tottenham, Newcastle, and Birmingham City. Renowned for his work rate, he earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year twice, with fans remembering his tireless runs up the right wing.

10. Steve Finnan
Known for his work ethic and reliable right-foot crosses, Finnan was a key figure for Liverpool in the mid-2000s. His contributions were vital in both attack and defense, helping Liverpool secure Champions League and FA Cup glory.

9. Bacary Sagna
Sagna’s time at Arsenal was marked by his resolute defending and willingness to support the attack. A mainstay in the Gunners’ defense, he earned 65 caps for France and established himself as one of the most consistent right-backs in the Premier League.

8. Lauren
Part of Arsenal’s Invincibles, Lauren was a key defensive pillar in a side that went unbeaten throughout the 2003/04 Premier League season. His defensive prowess and occasional contributions to the attack made him an essential part of Arsenal’s dominance during the early 2000s.

7. Cesar Azpilicueta
While best known for his versatility, Azpilicueta’s time at Chelsea cemented his status as one of the league’s top right-backs. His leadership and technical skill were integral to Chelsea’s Premier League and Champions League successes during his tenure.

6. Branislav Ivanovic
Ivanovic was a physical presence on the right for Chelsea, both defensively and offensively. His ability to score goals, especially in crucial moments, made him a fan favorite, with 22 goals to his name in the Premier League.

5. Pablo Zabaleta
Zabaleta’s work rate and defensive nous were vital to Manchester City’s rise to dominance. While he wasn’t flashy, his consistency and leadership made him a key figure in City’s Premier League successes.

4. Lee Dixon
A stalwart in Arsenal’s defense, Dixon was known for his defensive reliability and leadership qualities. Though often overshadowed by more flamboyant players, Dixon’s consistency helped secure two Premier League titles for the Gunners.

3. Trent Alexander-Arnold
Alexander-Arnold has redefined the role of the modern right-back. With more assists than any other right-back in Premier League history, his passing range and creativity make him one of the most gifted players to ever play the position. His impact on Liverpool’s success under Jurgen Klopp cannot be overstated.

2. Kyle Walker
Walker’s speed, power, and physicality set him apart as one of the Premier League’s best right-backs. A key figure for Manchester City, Walker’s consistency and ability to thrive under Pep Guardiola’s system have earned him six Premier League titles. His pace makes him a near-unstoppable force, and his leadership qualities have only added to his legendary status.

1. Gary Neville
Neville was the embodiment of consistency and discipline at Manchester United. A tenacious defender and effective contributor in attack, Neville was a key player in Man United’s dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson, winning eight Premier League titles and 35 assists across his career.

The evolution of the right-back position has been evident in the Premier League, with modern players like Alexander-Arnold and Walker setting new standards for what’s expected of these defenders. The balance between defense and attack has become crucial, and the players on this list have not only met that challenge but often exceeded it, earning their place among the Premier League’s all-time greats.

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