Finding the best full-backs in Liga MX – data analysis

Not too long ago, the role of a full-back was probably seen as one of the least important in football. They were tasked with defending opposition wingers and not much else. This perception of the role was well known in the world of football. As Jamie Carragher famously said, no one wants to grow up and be a Gary Neville. The Manchester United full-back had a very successful career, but Carragher was probably right. However, more recently players like Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold have changed the role of a full-back. Despite being a defender, he has shown he is one of the biggest attacking threats in the Premier League.

The role of a full-back has constantly been evolving in the last few years. They are now seen as one of the most integral parts to some of Europe’s biggest teams. However, their importance is not just limited to Europe. In my time covering Liga MX, it has become apparent how important they are to a number of teams in Mexico. Liga MX is extremely fast-paced and almost mimics as a basketball game with its end to end action. Therefore, the role of a full-back is completely rounded requiring high attacking output, as well as a solid defensive base.

This data analysis will use statistics to find the best full-backs Liga MX has to offer. The analysis will use data from the 2019/20 season, in which all players must have played at least 10 games. The data analysis will focus on a number of attacking and defensive metrics.

Progressive runs and passes

The first part of this data analysis will focus on each players ability to progress their team forward, either through passing or carrying the ball.

The data above shows some real stand out players. Players towards the top right corner show us individuals who attempt a high number of progressive runs and passes. One player who certainly ticks both boxes is Colombian, Yairo Moreno. The 25-year old helped Club Leon to a second-place finish in 19/20 Clausura. In that season he attempted one of the highest numbers of progressive passes, with 9.69 per 90. The data also shows he attempted the most progressive runs with 3.6 per 90.

This number of progressive runs is rarely matched, as the second most were achieved by Ulises Cardona. The Mexican primarily operates as a winger but did play a majority of games at full-back early in the season. In this season, he completed 2.52 progressive runs per 90. This was accompanied by a good number of progressive passes with 7.68 per 90, slightly less than Moreno.