Best Right Backs to Buy in Football Manager 2026 — Elite Options, Bargains & Wonderkid RBs

At A Glance

• 10+ elite RBs, 10+ cheap bargain RBs, and 10+ wonderkid right backs for FM26.
• Attribute priorities and scouting tips to sign the best full-backs for any tactic.
• SEO-optimized player lists ideal for upgrades, rebuilds, or long-term saves.

Best Overall Right Backs in FM26 (Top 12)

These right backs are the strongest immediate starters in FM26. They combine elite defensive attributes, excellent physical ability, and strong attacking output for overlapping or inverted full-back roles.

1. Trent Alexander-Arnold — elite passing, creativity, and technical quality for attacking full-back systems.
2. Achraf Hakimi — world-class pace, versatility, and attacking output; ideal for transitions.
3. Reece James — top-tier blend of power, crossing, and defensive solidity.
4. Jeremie Frimpong — explosive athleticism with strong dribbling and attacking contributions.
5. Giovanni Di Lorenzo — excellent defensive intelligence and consistent performances.
6. Ben White — dependable, positionally strong, and a great hybrid RB/CB option.
7. Dani Carvajal — experienced and extremely reliable for high-level saves.
8. Kieran Trippier — elite set-piece delivery and strong leadership qualities.
9. Noussair Mazraoui — well-rounded technical and tactical skill set.
10. Dodo — fast, aggressive, and strong progression with the ball.
11. Pedro Porro — attacking RB with top-tier crossing and creativity.
12. Ridle Baku — excellent work rate, ball carrying, and transitional play.

These players are ideal for teams expecting to control matches or needing high-output full-backs for wide play and progressive transitions.

Best Cheap or Budget Right Backs (Top 12)

These RBs offer great value for money, whether you’re managing in lower leagues or need reliable depth on a shoestring budget. Their transfer fees are typically low, and many offer room for development.

1. Takehiro Tomiyasu — often available for reduced fees and offers huge versatility.
2. Sergiño Dest — undervalued in many saves; strong dribbling and athleticism.
3. Aaron Wan-Bissaka — outstanding tackling; transfer-listed in many FM worlds.
4. Emerson Royal — inconsistent but talented; frequently discounted.
5. Nathan Patterson — solid, affordable option with growth potential.
6. Tino Livramento — fee varies, but injuries often reduce his value.
7. Joe Scally — reliable and inexpensive with balanced attributes.
8. Kyle Walker-Peters — well-rounded, rarely overpriced, and versatile.
9. Lorenz Assignon — affordable with big physical upside.
10. Jorge Sánchez — cheap international-level full-back with pace.
11. Gonzalo Montiel — hard-working, dependable, and usually transfer-listed.
12. Mert Müldür — bargain option good for mid-table teams.

Budget RBs work best in systems where you don’t rely heavily on elite crossing or high technical quality but need reliability and defensive assurance.

Best Young Right Back Wonderkids in FM26 (Top 12)

These high-potential RBs grow into world-class full-backs with the right training. Many start as backups but become elite starters within 2–4 seasons.

1. Malo Gusto — one of the best RB wonderkids with elite athletic growth.
2. Ivan Fresneda — top defending attributes for his age; becomes a defensive anchor.
3. Martín Moler — fast-developing youth prospect with strong technical ability.
4. Valentín Barco (can play LB/RB/WB) — outstanding progressive play and versatility.
5. Devyne Rensch — intelligent, technical RB with hybrid CB ability.
6. Silvan Hefti Jr. — strong physical foundation for long-term development.
7. Archie Gray — versatile midfielder who converts superbly to RB in many saves.
8. Tomas Galvez (natural LB but develops well at RB) — good all-round attributes.
9. Tiago Santos — excellent upside with pace and work rate.
10. Amar Dedić — very balanced, consistent young full-back.
11. Viktor Bernth Kristansen — raw but high ceiling in athletic systems.
12. Saël Kumbedi — strong tackling and off-the-ball movement; develops quickly.

Wonderkids require steady game time and targeted full-back training—especially Crossing, Positioning, Anticipation, Acceleration, and Stamina.

What Attributes to Prioritize When Scouting Right Backs

To sign the right RB for your tactic, focus on these core attribute groups:

For attacking / overlapping full-backs:

• Crossing
• Acceleration & Pace
• Off the Ball
• Dribbling & First Touch
• Stamina & Work Rate
• Flair (if you want creativity from wide areas)

For inverted full-backs:

• Passing
• Vision
• Composure
• Positioning
• Decisions
• Technique

For defensive / conservative full-backs:

• Marking
• Tackling
• Positioning
• Strength
• Concentration
• Teamwork

Your tactical style determines which RBs will thrive long-term — don’t rely on overall ratings alone.

Transfer Tips for Securing the Best RBs

• Check contract duration: Full-backs often become available cheaply during contract disputes.
• Loan-to-buy deals: Many mid-tier clubs accept these for younger full-backs.
• Scout South America and Scandinavia: These regions consistently generate cheap and high-potential RBs.
• Play time promises: Young RBs grow quickly if promised regular matches.
• Role training: Switching youth players to WB or IWB roles often boosts their development faster.

Final Thoughts

Right backs are one of the most important roles in Football Manager 2026, especially with modern tactics demanding pace, intelligence, and attacking contribution. Whether you need an elite starter, a cheap squad player, or a long-term wonderkid, the lists above provide more than 30 strong options for any squad level. Tailor your choice to your tactical needs, prioritize the right attributes, and invest in young prospects early to secure a world-class full-back for seasons to come.