Top 3 left backs in world football
I’m sure many won’t agree with the order or with the left backs selected in this list but here are what I consider to be the top three left backs in the world.
1. Ashley Cole – Chelsea – 32 years old
He may be reaching the latter stages of his career but Ashley Cole is still the most accomplished and complete left back in world football today. Cole’s attacking urges were let free during his time at Arsenalwhere the formation implored him to stream forward but under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea he developed the defensive, more disciplined side of his game.
Cole became the 7th England player to reach a century of caps for his country and a major international trophy is about the only thing that he can’t add to his impressive list of honours.
A compact and dynamic defender, Cole’s durability and excellent stamina are also notable having made over 150 appearances for Arsenal and over 200 for Chelsea.
2. Marcelo – Real Madrid – 24 years old
One of the most versatile and dynamic players in the world, never mind at his position, Marcelo’s blistering pace and eye catching skill propel him to number two in this list.
Adding a little bit of Brazilian flair to your game can never hurt and Marcelo is a key feature of Real Madrid’s attacking game, supporting down the left hand side with constant overlapping runs. The relationship and understanding he has created with Cristiano Ronaldo make Madrid’s left hand side imperious and an important reason why Real were able to win the La Liga title last season.
Youth is on Marcelo’s side, too, and he has already become a part of Brazil’s international set up. At only 24 Marcelo will only continue to improve and when Cole decides to retire it will be hard to look past the young Brazilian as to who is the best left back in world football.
3. Jordi Alba – Barcelona – 23 years old
During his time at Valencia Jordi Alba was prominently used as a midfielder but due to injuries he was moved to left back where he has excelled for both club and country since. A product of Barcelona’s youth system, Alba had an outstanding Euro 2012 for Spain and capped off a brilliant tournament by scoring the second goal in the final against Italy.
Barcelona re-signed him ahead of the 2012-2013 season and he has impressed with his defensive stability but also with his forays forward from the full back position that are so important to Barcelona’s attacking philosophy.
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