Top 5 backup right backs in the world (2021)

#3 Joakim Mæhle | Atalanta

Joakim Mæhle was crucial to Denmark's semi-final run at Euro 2020

Joakim Mæhle has seen a substantial and sudden rise in his market value, with the Danish right back currently commanding a career-high rate of €19m. Mæhle had a stellar Euro 2020 campaign where he played every minute for his nation, contributing two goals and an assist along the way.

Following the conclusion of the aforementioned tournament, Mæhle revealed that he plans to extend his stay at Atalanta, amidst interest from Chelsea and Southampton. Despite his obvious talents, the 24-year-old right back was restricted to just 20 league appearances last season. Eight of these came from the bench in a historic season for the Bergamo-based club.

🤝 Transfer TalkSouthampton have made an approach for Joakim Maehle but are not willing to pay the €28 million asking price. The Danish international have been tracked for a long time by Saints and almost made the switch last summer, before joining Atalanta. #saintsfc pic.twitter.com/yUeF46mipo

— Southampton FC Updates (@TheSaintCentre) July 7, 2021

Mæhle's role in his debut season for Atalanta was to act as Hans Hateboer's understudy at the right back position. However, due to his astounding performances at the Euros as well as for his club, the former Genk defender could get an extended run in the first-team next season.

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#2 Sergiño Dest | FC Barcelona

Sergino Dest proved to be a massive upgrade on Nelson Semedo

The right back clash at Barcelona, come next season, is going to be one of the most enticing intra-club battles for a starting spot. With no designated first-choice chosen at the time of writing, Sergino Dest and newcomer, Emerson Royal will each be vying to make the fullback region their own.

But even with less to no competition, Dest had to share minutes, initially with Sergi Roberto, and later with Oscar Mingueza after a thigh injury to the former. Despite possessing tremendous pace and offensive abilities, the young American lacks a certain kind of stability at the back that Ronald Koeman wants in his side. As a result, newly acquired Emerson, who is more astute defensively, will most probably be the starting right back under the Dutch manager.

🔄 (DEST): There is no chance Sergiño Dest will leave Barcelona this summer.#FCB 🇺🇸🚫Via (🟢): @FabrizioRomano on Twitch. pic.twitter.com/6EHoDQnHW8

— Barça Buzz (@Barca_Buzz) July 29, 2021

Nevertheless, Dest has an eye for perfect crosses which, when coupled with his incredible dribbling skills, can be devastatingly lethal. The 20-year-old right back undoubtedly has a bright career ahead of him, and having healthy competition in the form of Emerson might just bring the best out of Dest.

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#1 Álvaro Odriozola | Real Madrid

Alvaro Odriozola scored two goals for Real Madrid last season

Álvaro Odriozola was a highly rated prospect at the time of his €30m move from boyhood club Real Sociedad to Spanish giants Real Madrid. Considering the current state of affairs, it wouldn't be completely wrong to state that the 25-year-old right back has failed to reach his true potential. Nevertheless, last season proved that Odriozola is definitely the best backup option for the said position.

In the absence of Dani Carvajal, who suffered from five different impairments during the course of the 2020-21 season, Odriozola and Nacho turned out to be decent enough deputies. However, the former's blazing form towards the end of the season distinguished him from Madrid's other defenders.

🚨 Milan are reportedly in talks with Real Madrid over possible deals for Isco and Alvaro Odriozola 🇪🇸. #ACMilan🔴⚫ #RMFC (via @footballitalia 🌗)

— Football Transfers (@Transferzone00) August 3, 2021

During his season-long loan with Bayern Munich, Odriozola was utilized as a backup right back for Benjamin Pavard, a job which he fulfilled without much difficulty. With Carvajal struggling for fitness, the Spanish right back may experience a substantial increase in his playing time.

The departure of Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane might also force Nacho to play more as a center back, which should also give Odriozola more time on the pitch. For the time being, he remains one of the best backup fullbacks in the modern game.

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