The position of full-back is one of the most changed in soccer. While a few years ago, the player in this position was almost like a defender on the flanks, today many of the best Argentinian right-backs in history play on the wings, appearing on the back line several times during matches.
The full-back can also be a “builder’s full-back”, who plays closer to the middle, or even a third defender, helping out on the ball and covering the wingers who go forward.
That said, let’s take a look at the greatest players in the position throughout Argentina’s beautiful footballing history.
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8 best Argentinian right-backs in history: career, titles and records
Here’s a list of the best Argentine right-backs in history:
1. Javier Zanetti
2. Gonzalo Montiel
3. Ricardo Giusti
4. Pablo Zabaleta
5. Fabian Basualdo
6. Jorge Olguín
7. Eduardo Commisso
8. Hugo Ibarra
1. Javier Zanetti
Javier Zanetti played for Talleres, but rose to prominence at Banfield before moving to Internazionale in 1995.
During 19 years at the club, he became a legend, collecting titles such as the Champions League, the Italian Championship and the Italian Cup. Zanetti was known for his versatility, leadership and consistency.
With over 850 caps for Internazionale, he is one of the greatest idols in the club’s history.
Javier Zanetti also had a remarkable career with the Argentinian national team, playing for 16 years and making 145 appearances, making him the most capped player in the country’s history to date.
2. Gonzalo Montiel
Gonzalo Montiel began his career at River Plate, where he quickly made a name for himself as a right-back, winning titles such as the 2018 Libertadores, which he won over arch-rivals Boca Juniors.
His talent led him to the Argentinian national team, where he won the Copa America in 2021 and the World Cup in 2022, the year he was signed by Sevilla FC and won the Europa League and the UEFA Super Cup.
Montiel is known for his versatility, defensive prowess and attacking ability, and was notable for converting the decisive penalty in the World Cup final, which gave Argentina their third trophy in Qatar.
3. Ricardo Giusti
Ricardo Giusti began his career in Argentine soccer, playing mainly as a right-back.
He played for clubs such as Newell ‘s Old Boys and Independiente, where he excelled, winning several titles, including the Copa Libertadores and the Intercontinental Cup in 1984.
Recognized for his versatility and leadership, Giusti was also a key part of the Argentinian national team, featuring in the ’86 and ’90 World Cups, where the team won and finished runners-up respectively.
His combative style of play and consistency made him an important figure in Argentinian soccer, and he was admired for his dedication and professionalism.
4. Pablo Zabaleta
Zabaleta began his career playing for San Lorenzo, before making a name for himself at Espanyol in Barcelona.
In 2008, he was signed by Manchester City, where he became one of the most important figures in the club’s history, winning important titles.
One of the best Argentinian right-backs in history, he became established for his defensive consistency and contribution in attack.
Zabaleta won titles such as the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.
He has also had a successful international career with the Argentinian national team, the highlight of which was finishing runner-up at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
5. Fabian Basualdo
Fabián Basualdo began his career playing for clubs such as Newell’s Old Boys and River Plate.
At River, he established himself as a right-back, being one of the main names in the team’s defense during the 1990s.
In addition to his solid career at club level, Basualdo played an important role in the Argentinian national team’s Copa América triumphs, winning in 1991 and 1993.
The player was also recognized for his dedication and strong marking throughout his career, with notable spells at other Argentine clubs such as Godoy Cruz and Platense, where he ended his career in 2000.
6. Jorge Olguín
Jorge Olguín had a brilliant career as a full-back in the Argentine national team, being one of the pillars of the defense during the 1978 World Cup.
The player began his career in Argentine soccer playing for San Lorenzo, where he gained fame for his defensive solidity.
Olguín also played for other clubs, such as Independiente and Argentinos Júniors, winning the Libertadores with El Tifón de Boyacá.
With his marking ability and presence in the box, he became one of the most respected defenders of his generation, standing out above all for the historic World Cup victory he won at home.
7. Eduardo Commisso
Still one of the best Argentinian right-backs in history, Eduardo Commisso stood out above all at Independiente in the 70s.
His career began in the club’s youth system and he quickly became a defensive icon, playing a key role in the team’s great achievements.
With his solid defensive presence and leadership, Commisso helped Independiente win important titles, including 4 Copa Libertadores and a Club World Cup.
He is remembered as one of the great names in the club’s history and a legend of Argentine soccer.
8. Hugo Ibarra
Hugo Ibarra began his career in Argentine soccer with clubs such as Colón, before making a name for himself at Boca Juniors.
A great right-back, Ibarra won important titles, including four Copa Libertadores and the Argentine league.
Recognized for his defensive skills and speed, he caught the attention of European soccer, playing for clubs such as Porto, Monaco and Espanyol.
In addition to his successful career, Ibarra is remembered for his determination and dedication, being an icon at Boca Juniors and in Argentine soccer.
The position of full-back is one that has evolved the most in recent years, and versatility, physical fitness and technique have become increasingly demanding requirements. In this respect, the best Argentinian right-backs in history have a lot to contribute to the role.
So, that concludes our list of the 8 best Argentinian right-backs in history. And if you’re a fan of South American soccer, read on:
- Argentina’s 10 greatest teams of all time
- 10 best Argentinian left-backs in history: career and titles at home and abroad
- 10 best Argentinian midfielders in history: from Maradona to Messi
