While attacking full-backs have always played a key role in the Premier League, their importance has never been greater. It’s no longer enough for left-backs to simply focus on their defensive duties; today’s top-tier defenders are expected to charge forward, create chances, and even invert into midfield based on their manager’s tactics.
From Ashley Cole to Andrew Robertson, the best full-backs have always been expected to perform at both ends of the pitch. Now, let's take a look at who currently reigns as the top left-backs in the Premier League, and why they deserve to be recognised as the best in the game today.
Here Are The 2024-25 10 Best Premier League Left-Backs
10. Álex Moreno (Nottingham Forest - Loan)
Álex Moreno's form at Nottingham Forest has been impressive since his move from Aston Villa. After contributing three assists in 19 Premier League appearances for Villa, the Spanish left-back has seamlessly transitioned to Forest.
Prior to his time in England, Moreno built a strong reputation in Spain with Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis, winning the Copa del Rey in 2022. His vast experience in La Liga and the Premier League makes him a key asset for Nuno Espírito Santo, bringing stability and attacking flair. At 31, he’s still delivering at a high level, earning his place among the best.
9. Rayan Ait-Nouri (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Wolves have relied heavily on the youthful energy and dynamism of Ait-Nouri, and the French left-back has delivered. With three goals so far this season, Ait-Nouri’s pace and ability to push forward have continue to be a huge asset in Wolves’ tactical setup.
His performances have seen him linked with bigger clubs, and at just 23 years old, he is only going to get better. Expect more from the talented Algerian full-back as the season progresses.
8. Antonee Robinson (Fulham)
Antonee Robinson has remained a key figure in Fulham’s defence under Marco Silva, continuing to impress with his well-rounded game. With his pace and energy down the left flank, Robinson has maintained solid defensive contributions with a 67% tackle success rate, showcasing his ability to stifle opposition attacks.
He’s also managed to provide an attacking threat, although his cross accuracy sits at 30%, indicating room for improvement in his offensive delivery. Despite these challenges, Robinson’s consistency and versatility make him an essential player for Fulham who have been impressive so far.
7. Diogo Dalot (Manchester United)
After a standout season last year, Diogo Dalot has been a bit inconsistent this term, and it remains to be seen how his performances will evolve with Ruben Amorim taking over as manager.
Despite his occasional dips in form, Dalot remains a key player with a solid 75% tackle success rate, showcasing his defensive capabilities, especially in the absence of Luke Shaw. However, his crossing accuracy has been a weakness, currently sitting at only 20%. Under Amorim, Dalot’s role and impact could change, but he remains a versatile and dependable option on the left flank for United.
6. Jurrien Timber (Arsenal)
Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber has proved to be a versatile and reliable presence at the back at the Emirates. Despite suffering a significant injury early last term, Timber has worked hard to return to full fitness, and when called upon, he’s shown he can be just as effective on the left as he is in the centre. With his smart positioning, composure on the ball, and ability to assist in attack, Timber’s potential as a top left-back is undeniable. He will only improve as he gets fitter.
5. Lucas Digne (Aston Villa)
Lucas Digne has rediscovered his best form under Unai Emery at Aston Villa. The Frenchman has long been recognised for his attacking flair and his ability to whip in dangerous crosses, but under Emery, he has become more well-rounded.
Digne has become a dependable performer at both ends of the pitch, contributing to Villa’s success in domestic and European competitions. His blend of attacking quality and solid defending makes him one of the best left-backs of the 2024-25 season.
4. Destiny Udogie (Tottenham Hotspur)
One of the breakout stars of the 2023-24 season, Destiny Udogie has quickly become a fan favourite at Tottenham Hotspur. The young Italian has added a new dimension to Spurs’ left flank with his electric pace and attacking verve. He’s been exceptional at both ends of the pitch, regularly bombing forward while also keeping his defensive duties in check.
Udogie is one of the most exciting left-backs in the Premier League, and at just 21 years old, he has the potential to dominate for years to come. However, while his overall performances have been impressive, occasional rash tackles are an area that needs refining, as they sometimes put his team under unnecessary pressure.
3. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea)
Marc Cucurella’s time at Chelsea got off to a rough start, but the Spaniard has certainly turned things around this season. Under Enzo Maresca, he has flourished in a role that plays to his strengths, excelling as an inverted full-back. His displays have been reminiscent of his successful days at Brighton, where his pace and technical ability were a constant source of threat down the left. Cucurella is now firmly Chelsea’s first-choice left-back, proving doubters wrong.
2. Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City)
Signed in the summer of 2023, Gvardiol has already made a significant impact at the Etihad, displaying maturity beyond his years. The Croatian’s composure, ball-playing ability, and intelligent positioning have made him a standout, even in a squad as talented as City’s.
He excel defensively and also poses a threat going forward, chipping in with goals and assists. Gvardiol’s impressive performances have firmly cemented his place as one of the best left-back in the Premier League for the 2024-25 season.
1. Andy Robertson (Liverpool)
The top spot in our rankings goes to Liverpool’s Andy Robertson. For years, Robertson has been the gold standard for Premier League left-backs, and while his performances have shown signs of slowing down, he remains a force to be reckoned with boasting a tackle success rate of 70%.
The Scottish international’s ability to create chances with his pinpoint crosses and relentless work rate is still one of the best in the league. Robertson’s leadership, consistency, and attacking influence make him an invaluable player for Liverpool, and he continues to be the best in his position despite the rise of new challengers.
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