A great goalkeeper isn’t just a shot-stopper—they’re a leader, a game-changer, and sometimes the difference between glory and heartbreak. They stand alone between the posts, carrying a unique pressure that few other players experience. Whether it’s a last-minute save, a commanding presence in the box, or the ability to launch attacks with pinpoint passing, the best goalkeepers do it all.
In today’s game, the role has evolved beyond just reflex saves and catching crosses. Keepers now dictate play with their feet, organise defences like generals, and in some cases, even decide matches in penalty shootouts. With that in mind, here’s a look at the 15 best goalkeepers in the world right now—based on form, consistency, and impact on their teams.
15. Lukáš Hrádecký (Bayer Leverkusen, Finland)
Bayer Leverkusen’s captain is more than just a safe pair of hands—he’s the heartbeat of a side that defied all expectations to go unbeaten in the Bundesliga last season. At 35, Hrádecký is still performing at an elite level, pulling off vital saves and keeping his team composed in high-pressure moments. A true leader between the sticks.
14. Gregor Kobel (Borussia Dortmund, Switzerland)
Kobel has been a revelation for Borussia Dortmund, proving himself one of the best shot-stoppers in European football. His performances in the Champions League last season were nothing short of heroic, leading the tournament in clean sheets and making a habit of pulling off miraculous saves. With rumours swirling about a potential move to the Premier League, the 26-year-old’s stock has never been higher.
13. Unai Simón (Athletic Club, Spain)
Spain’s No.1 since 2020, Simón has consistently delivered for both club and country. Despite his relatively smaller frame compared to modern goalkeepers, his reflexes and ability to play out from the back make him a top-tier talent. A wrist injury slowed him down this season, but he’s already back making crucial stops for Athletic Club.
12. Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich, Germany)
A legend of the game. Neuer didn’t just redefine goalkeeping—he revolutionised it. Though now in the twilight of his career, the German great is still capable of match-winning performances. His display against Real Madrid in last season’s Champions League semi-final showed he still has that magic in his gloves, even if consistency is no longer his strong suit.
11. Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain, Italy)
Once tipped to be the undisputed best goalkeeper in the world, Donnarumma hasn’t quite reached those heights yet. He remains a top-tier shot-stopper, capable of incredible saves, but lapses in concentration have been costly. That said, at just 25 years old, there’s still time for him to reach his full potential.
10. Diogo Costa (Porto, Portugal)
One of the most exciting young goalkeepers in Europe, Costa has all the attributes of a modern great—he’s quick, agile, and outstanding with the ball at his feet. He’s been Porto’s last line of defence for three full seasons now, consistently outperforming expected goals conceded. With a contract running until 2027, Porto will have to fight hard to keep hold of him.
9. David de Gea (Fiorentina, Spain)
After spending a year without a club following his Manchester United exit, many thought De Gea’s time at the top was over. How wrong they were. Fiorentina gave him a lifeline, and he’s repaid them with vintage performances, rolling back the years with lightning-fast reflexes and gravity-defying saves. Statistically, he’s been one of Europe’s best goalkeepers this season—what a comeback story.
8. Mike Maignan (AC Milan, France)
When Milan lost Donnarumma in 2021, there were fears they’d struggle to replace him. Enter Mike Maignan. The Frenchman played a key role in Milan’s Serie A triumph, winning the league’s Best Goalkeeper award. Injuries have disrupted his form in recent seasons, but when fit, he’s a commanding presence who exudes confidence.
7. Ederson (Manchester City, Brazil)
Pep Guardiola’s system demands more than just a goalkeeper—it requires a playmaker in gloves. Ederson has redefined what it means to be a modern shot-stopper, with his pinpoint passing and composure under pressure setting him apart. However, this season has been a challenging one for him, with increased competition from Stefan Ortega and speculation over his future at the Etihad.
6. Yann Sommer (Inter Milan, Switzerland)
Sommer has built a career on consistency, and his move to Inter Milan has only enhanced his reputation. The Swiss international was instrumental in Inter’s Serie A triumph last season, setting a club record for clean sheets. Cool-headed, experienced, and reliable—qualities every top goalkeeper needs.
5. Jan Oblak (Atlético Madrid, Slovenia)
For years, Oblak has been the gold standard of goalkeeping in La Liga. While he may not be quite as unbeatable as he once was, his performance against Inter Milan in last season’s Champions League knockout stages was a reminder of his class. Five Zamora Trophies (awarded to La Liga’s best goalkeeper) tell you everything you need to know.
4. Emiliano Martínez (Aston Villa, Argentina)
Some goalkeepers are just built for big moments—Martínez is one of them. His heroics in the World Cup final cemented his place among Argentina’s greatest-ever goalkeepers, and he’s carried that form into club football. Aston Villa owe a lot to his shot-stopping, penalty-saving prowess, and undeniable confidence. Winner of the Yashin Trophy for the past two years, he’s at the peak of his powers.
3. David Raya (Arsenal, Spain)
Raya arrived at Arsenal with the expectation of battling Aaron Ramsdale for the No.1 spot—he ended up making the position his own. Last season, he claimed the Premier League Golden Glove, and this year he’s somehow found another level. His recent Champions League display against Atalanta, where he pulled off an outrageous double save, was simply breathtaking.
2. Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid, Belgium)
A giant of the game, both literally and figuratively. Courtois has been Real Madrid’s wall at the back since 2018, with his 2022 Champions League final display against Liverpool standing as one of the greatest goalkeeping performances in history. Injury ruled him out for much of last season, but when he returned, he reminded everyone why he’s still one of the very best.
1. Alisson Becker (Liverpool, Brazil)
No goalkeeper in the world blends shot-stopping ability, composure, and distribution as seamlessly as Alisson. Since arriving at Liverpool, he’s been their rock at the back, bailing them out time and time again. Even with injuries limiting his appearances this season, his stats remain remarkable—conceding just 15 goals in 14 matches. A true game-changer in goal, and the undisputed best in the world right now.
