Brazilian Right Backs: Top Players In Brazil Now Season
When you picture Brazilian football, the image that often pops up is a dazzling blend of flair, speed, and tactical intelligence. While the spotlight usually lands on attacking midfielders and forwards, the right side of the back line has become a hotbed of talent that blends defensive solidity with explosive forward runs. Below we explore the standout right backs who are shaping the game in Brazil and abroad during the current season.
Danilo – The Veteran’s Evolution
Danilo, now plying his trade with Juventus, remains a fixture in the Brazilian national squad. At 31, his experience reads like a textbook of modern full‑back play: disciplined positioning, precise crossing, and an uncanny ability to read the game.
What sets Danilo apart this season is his dual threat: he shuts down wingers with disciplined tackles while still delivering dangerous balls into the box. His partnership with the overlapping midfielders at Juventus has rejuvenated his attack, making him a frequent assist provider.
- Key Strength: Defensive awareness combined with accurate long‑range passing.
- Recent Highlight: Assisted a crucial goal in the Serie A clash against Napoli.
- Future Outlook: Expected to mentor younger Brazilian full‑backs breaking into European leagues.
Renan Lodi – The Rising English Premier League Star
Renan Lodi’s move to Nottingham Forest may have seemed like a surprise, but his adaptation to the physical demands of the Premier League has been swift. The 25‑year‑old brings a Brazilian flair that catches opponents off‑guard, especially when cutting inside to shoot.
His defensive track record is improving, thanks to an intensive focus on positional drills under manager Steve Cooper. Lodi now averages over 2.5 interceptions per game, a notable jump from his early Serie A days.
- Key Strength: Quick footwork and the ability to create scoring opportunities from the right flank.
- Recent Highlight: Scored a decisive header against Brentford, sealing a 1‑0 win.
- Future Outlook: Likely to become a regular fixture for Brazil’s senior side if his form continues.
Guilherme Arana – The Atlético Mineiro Dynamo
Back on home soil, Guilherme Arana has cemented his status as one of the premier right backs in the Brasileirão. His relentless stamina allows him to cover the entire sideline, appearing in over 90% of his team’s matches this season.
Arana’s crossing accuracy has risen dramatically; he now lands 30% of his balls inside the penalty area, a stark improvement from last year’s 22%.
- Key Strength: Endurance and pinpoint crossing.
- Recent Highlight: Delivered three assists in a single match against Flamengo.
- Future Outlook: Rumors link him with a move to Europe, possibly to a club needing a reliable wing‑back.
Alex Sandro – Porto’s Tactical Maestro
Alex Sandro may be better known for his left‑footed play, but his occasional deployment on the right showcases his versatility. At Porto, his tactical discipline shines through – he rarely leaves gaps when his team presses high.
During a critical Europa League tie, Sandro’s defensive block prevented a clear‑cut chance, illustrating his composure under pressure.
- Key Strength: Tactical intelligence and adaptability.
- Recent Highlight: Scored a rare goal from outside the box against Lazio.
- Future Outlook: Expected to extend his contract, remaining a central figure in Porto’s defense.
Natan – The Young Brazilian Prospect
At just 22, Natan of Athletico Paranaense has become a buzzword among scouts. His explosive acceleration and willingness to take on defenders make him a nightmare for opposing left‑backs.
Although he is still honing his defensive positioning, his offensive contribution—averaging 0.4 goals per season—signals a bright future.
- Key Strength: Speed and attacking mindset.
- Recent Highlight: Netting a brace in a derby clash against Coritiba.
- Future Outlook: Likely to attract interest from clubs in the MLS or Europe.
What Makes Brazilian Right Backs Stand Out?
The common thread linking these players isn’t just raw talent; it’s a blend of cultural football philosophy and modern training methods. Brazilian academies emphasize technical mastery from a young age, while top‑tier clubs push for tactical versatility. The result is a generation of right backs who can defend like traditional centre‑backs, yet surge forward with the creativity of wingers.
For fans and analysts alike, watching how these athletes balance their dual roles offers a glimpse into the evolving demands of the modern game. Whether they’re dribbling past a forward in São Paulo or delivering a pinpoint cross at Old Trafford, Brazil’s right backs are undeniably reshaping the sport’s dynamics.
