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. Matz Sels (NottinghamForest, Belgium)
Matz Sels has been a reliable presence for Nottingham Forest since joining the club, showcasing his experience and leadership between the sticks. The Belgian goalkeeper combines sharp reflexes with excellent command of his area, making crucial saves when his team needs them most.
He tied for the most clean sheets in the 2024/25 Premier League season alongside David Raya, winning the Golden Glove.
14. Joan Garcia (Espanyol, Spain)
Joan García has emerged as one of La Liga’s standout goalkeepers in the 2024–25 season, playing a pivotal role in Espanyol’s campaign. At 24, after leading the league in saves, his performances have not only solidified his reputation domestically but have also attracted attention from top European clubs. He is set to sign for Barcelona.
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. 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.
10. 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.
9. 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.
8. Wojciech Szczęsny (Barcelona, Poland)
In October 2024, following Marc-André ter Stegen’s knee injury, FC Barcelona signed Polish goalkeeper Wojciech Szczęsny, who had recently retired after leaving Juventus.
Encouraged by compatriot Robert Lewandowski, Szczęsny agreed to a one-year contract. Initially serving as backup to Iñaki Peña, he became the starter in January 2025 following Peña’s disciplinary issues. Since then, he has delivered strong performances, including 8 clean sheets in his last 15 La Liga matches, and remained undefeated in the 2024/25 La Liga season.
Head coach Hansi Flick has praised Szczęsny’s impact, and discussions about extending his contract are currently underway.
7. 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.
6. 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.
5. 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.
4. David Raya (Arsenal, Spain)
Raya arrived at Arsenal expected to battle Aaron Ramsdale for the No.1 spot, but he ended up making the position his own. Last season, he claimed the Premier League Golden Glove, and this season, he’s done it again.
Wow, and somehow, he’s found another level. With 126 saves this campaign, Raya has firmly placed himself among the best goalkeepers in the world.
3. 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 and 2023 Champions League final display against Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund respectively, 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.
2. 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; 104 saves for Liverpool this season. A true game-changer in goal, and the undisputed best in the world right now.
His outstanding performances in big matches are also what make him the best goalkeeper in the world.
He is the undisputed best goalkeeper in the world right now after an unstoppable Champions League campaign. He singlehandedly led PSG to their first Champions League title with clutch performances throughout the tournament.
Donnarumma, once hailed as the heir to Buffon after his incredible display at EURO 2020, where he won Player of the Tournament, is now starting to reach those predicted heights. He remains a top-tier shot-stopper, capable of pulling off unbelievable saves, though lapses in concentration have occasionally been costly.
That said, at just 26 years old, there’s still plenty of time for him to reach his full potential. This season alone, he won four trophies and made 92 saves, a reminder of the elite talent he possesses.
