UEFA Euro 2016, B/R 200: Top 20 Goalkeepers
Goalkeepers are eccentric, temperamental characters. Often training by themselves, not really considered actual "footballers"—in the sense their primary function is using hands—they lead an interesting existence.
The position, though, is one of the game's more important. As the last realm of defence, netminders make the ultimate difference between winning and losing.
Heading into UEFA Euro 2016, the month-long competition is the perfect platform for in-form goalkeepers. An unplayable No. 1 can carry his team from the group stages to the knockout rounds, and from the knockout rounds to the final.
Before the world's second-most prestigious international competition (behind only the FIFA World Cup) Bleacher Report is asking which of Europe's available goalkeepers are best.
Germany might have too many great goalkeepers—Kevin Trapp and Ralf Fahrmann were surplus to requirements. Italy's up-and-coming prospects, Gianluigi Donnarumma and Mattia Perin, were either too young or injured, and Stephane Ruffier continues to be frozen out by France after the 2010 World Cup debacle, but the state of No. 1s across the continent is exceptional.
Criteria are weighted for a best possible score of 100.
The first 50 points are measured by command; this includes starting positions, conducting of one's 18-yard box, catching/distribution and overall confidence.
The last 50 are measured by shot-stopping; this includes reaction saves, reflexes, near/far-post awareness and the ability to consistently make extraordinary saves.
When added together, our overall score is made. In the event of a tie, we simply ask, using what we hope is common sense: "Who would I rather have at this competition?"
20. Yann Sommer, Switzerland
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Command Rating: 30/50
Borussia Monchengladbach knew they had something with Yann Sommer, who they signed for almost £7 million from FC Basel in the 2014 summer transfer window.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen's replacement, the Switzerland international fit the bill and left for Germany. Gladbach probably received more than what they paid for him.
The German side qualified for the 2016/17 UEFA Champions League and were close to challenging Bayer Leverkusen for third place in the Bundesliga. A percentage of that success must be attributed to Sommer's controlling (as best he can) and barking out orders to his defence.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 34/50
Sommer is a quick goalkeeper. When shots are fired at his goal, the Swiss usually comes up with something to deflect them away.
Gaining experience, the man Basel employed for seven seasons is getting better. The 27-year-old uses more of his intuition and forward-thinking to save shots now—not always his athletic ability and reflexes.
Overall Rating: 64/100
The Bundesliga has a wealth of great current and former goalkeepers, and Sommer is heading in that direction.
Slightly undersized, the Gladbach 'keeper is fending off Roman Burki and Marwin Hitz on the international stage, but he looks Switzerland's No. 1 for Euro 2016—taking the retired Diego Benaglio's shirt.
19. Danijel Subasic, Croatia
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Command Rating: 30/50
Danijel Subasic is an underrated goalkeeper.
The 31-year-old has made 317 senior appearances in three domestic competitions. A Croatia international since 2009, Subasic sat behind Stipe Pletikosa for six years, and with the latter's retirement in 2014, the former is now his country's premier No. 1.
Subasic is not the world's best goalkeeper—there are occasional lapses in concentration, handling and distribution—but for a nation like Croatia, they would be hard-pressed to find a better goalkeeper.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 34/50
A far better shot-stopper than commander of his 18-yard box, AS Monaco's first choice kept 12 clean sheets in France's Ligue 1 last season—helping the principality's top team qualify for the 2016/17 UEFA Champions League.
Subasic's above-average reflexes, anticipation and dexterity make him a handful.
Overall Rating: 64/100
In the same group with Spain, the Czech Republic and Turkey, Croatia should advance at Euro 2016.
They have an objectively mediocre attack but world-class midfield. Croatia's major question mark is their defence and goalkeeper. If those units have a great tournament, starting with Subasic, they can crack the quarter-finals.
18. Igor Akinfeev, Russia
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Command Rating: 33/50
The Russian Premier League is frequently overlooked. Clubs like Zenit St Petersburg and CSKA Moscow are home to decent (and in some cases world-class) talent.
Igor Akinfeev does not fall into the world-class category, but CSKA's captain—and six-time Russian champion—is certainly Russia's best goalkeeper. Playing more than 450 matches for Moscow, the one-club man has been his country's No. 1 for almost a decade.
His experience and coolness translate to nearly every aspect of his game except handling.
Despite having the most clean sheets in Russian footballing history, Akinfeev's most memorable moment might be his blunders against South Korea and Algeria at the 2014 World Cup.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 32/50
Judging someone by their worst professional moment, though, is not exactly fair. The 30-year-old is a competent shot-stopper, as he should be with his level of domestic, European and international schooling.
Akinfeev's near-post and far-post awareness is usually excellent, and were he taller than 6'1", he would have received more attention from Europe's top sides over his career.
Overall Rating: 65/100
Akinfeev has a massive job for Russia at Euro 2016.
He struggled at his last international tournament—and his deputy, Yuri Lodygin, has played well at Zenit—but if Russia's No. 1 can replicate his league form at the European Championship, he should give a positive account of himself.
17. Wojciech Szczesny, Poland
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Command Rating: 30/50
In a more perfect world, Wojciech Szczesny would be at Arsenal. Chelsea were willing to sell Petr Cech to a London rival, however, and the Poland international was forced to move from the Emirates Stadium for his own professional development—albeit on loan.
What made that move ideal for the north Londoners was having Cech but also upgrading on Szczesny's less-than-enviable 18-yard-box manner. Too often the Pole was caught out of position and cost his side goals.
AS Roma were willing to take the now-26-year-old for one season, and to his credit, he has improved. Could it be that the slower pace of Serie A allowed him more time to think? Possibly, but improvement is improvement—however it comes.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 36/50
Admitting to positional errors, it cannot be denied Szczesny saves shots. Standing 6'4" and agile, Poland's first-choice goalkeeper—when mentally engaged—has great reflexes and closing speed, and his frame does allow for slight mistakes in his technique.
If Szczesny combined his natural talent with positional awareness, there would be the makings of a brilliant goalkeeper. That just hasn't happened consistently enough, though.
Overall Rating: 66/100
Poland are one of Euro 2016's dark horses. Robert Lewandowski alone makes them a dangerous side, but if Szczesny is not on top of his game, the team's efforts will fall flat.
If he plays well, though, he could start questions at Arsenal, get Roma to sign him permanently or find another suitor altogether.
16. Anthony Lopes, Portugal
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Command Rating: 30/50
After Hugo Lloris left for Tottenham Hotspur in 2012, Olympique Lyonnais elected to start Remy Vercoutre in goal. That move lasted 30 games, and by the end of 2012/13, homegrown Anthony Lopes was between the posts for his boyhood club.
The 25-year-old has now made more than 140 first-team appearances for Lyon in four seasons (three as the day-one starter). Though a Portugal international, Lopes was birthed, raised and cultured in French football.
Standing just six feet tall, the Portuguese is undersized; this can keep him from making routine plays and just flinging himself toward any perceived danger. When it works, it looks amazing; when it fails, "goals against" are often the result.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 36/50
His diminutive size in goalkeeping terms is combated by magnificent speed and reflexes.
Keeping with the Olympique Lyonnais theme, one might compare Lopes to Gregory Coupet, a former Lyon goalkeeper on the smaller side (5'11") who possessed great reflexes and anticipation.
Lopes' great diving ability is a consequence of his stature, but (however it gets done) he's able to cover his goal area.
Overall Rating: 66/100
Portugal's second-choice goalkeeper behind Rui Patricio, Lopes should eventually become his country's No. 1—and might get chances at Euro 2016—but the 25-year-old's realistic international target should be the 2018 FIFA World Cup and/or Euro 2020.
15. Simon Mignolet, Belgium
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Command Rating: 33/50
At one point, Simon Mignolet was thought to be Belgium's best goalkeeper. Winner of the 2009/10 Belgian Goalkeeper of the Year award (for his contributions to Sint-Truidense VV), he must have thought his nation's No. 1 spot was his for the next decade.
Then Thibaut Courtois happened.
In actuality, Belgium were lucky. After three seasons with Sunderland, Mignolet moved to Liverpool and, while amassing more than 140 appearances for the Reds, has yet to master controlling his area. Inconsistencies catching and judging crosses can be burdensome—especially when he frequently opts to punch.
Managers Brendan Rodgers and Jurgen Klopp require their 'keepers to be serviceable footballers, and the Belgian has improved with his feet and playing from the back, but not enough to overcome his aerial shortcomings.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 37/50
Mignolet makes up for his command shortcomings with his reflexes. Able to recognise incoming shots quickly, the 28-year-old is usually in position to parry or punch.
Liverpool's No. 1 seems to overanalyse shots coming from distance, but when time to think is not afforded him, he usually does what is necessary to save his side goals.
Overall Rating: 70/100
Belgium have a fantastic goalkeeping situation heading into Euro 2016.
Courtois must be his country's No. 1, but having a player with Mignolet's temperament in the squad should keep a healthy level of competition.
14. Fraser Forster, England
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Command Rating: 35/50
Returning from a debilitating knee injury in January, Fraser Forster might not have thought he would be England's second-choice goalkeeper, but Jack Butland's own injury woes opened the door for him.
Starting 18 matches for Southampton, the 28-year-old conceded just 17 goals, keeping six clean sheets, and Saints won seven of their last nine Premier League matches—good enough to qualify for the 2016/17 Europa League.
A 6'7" giant, Forster is a general of his 18-yard box who catches crosses, controls his penalty area and directs the movement of his defenders.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 35/50
For such a large footballer, the former Newcastle United and Celtic netminder moves his frame well.
Getting down, getting up, moving forward, getting to his four corners and all other movement goalkeepers need, Forster can make.
His anticipation is deceptively quick, and when he "makes himself big" (not that that is a challenge), the goal shrinks.
Overall Rating: 70/100
England have rarely struggled with their goalkeepers, and Euro 2016 sees another crop of capable netminders.
Forster will play back-up to Manchester City's Joe Hart, but if he is needed, Roy Hodgson's Three Lions should be in solid hands.
13. Rui Patricio, Portugal
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Command Rating: 36/50
Appearing more than 365 times for Sporting Lisbon—and approaching 50 caps for Portugal—Rui Patricio is a solid goalkeeper. With the Primeira Liga's second-best No. 1, Sporting have enjoyed a great 2015/16.
An on-pitch leader, sometimes captain, and first choice for club and country, Patricio's experience makes him a vital component.
Entering the prime of his career, the 28-year-old has one flaw in his command: distribution. Kicking is the one gripe his managers would have, but elsewhere (positioning, aerial prowess and catching ability), Patricio is competent.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 35/50
The Portugal international is a decent shot-stopper. Not the quickest to the ground but normally well-positioned, Patricio makes himself big and understands the angles.
Far too often goalkeepers rush out, making attackers' minds up for them. Sporting's No. 1 has the all-important quality of patience—forcing attackers to become predictable and their shots easier to save.
Overall Rating: 71/100
Competition from Anthony Lopes exists for Patricio, but heading into Euro 2016, there should not be too much debate about who will be Portugal's top-rated goalkeeper.
There are questions about whether he has the ability to carry his team over a tournament, but Patricio does his job, which is all one should really expect.
12. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Germany
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Command Rating: 39/50
There is only so long Marc-Andre ter Stegen can remain in his current role at Barcelona. The designated "cup 'keeper," the Germany international is playing well below his level, but the league exploits of veteran Claudio Bravo make that transition rather difficult.
Ter Stegen has shown in the Champions League his ability to command a back four, catch crosses, play a possession-oriented style and just about everything else he showed at Borussia Monchengladbach for three seasons. Is that enough, though?
Still in single-digit La Liga appearances for the Catalan giants, the 24-year-old cannot be expected to arrest his career if greener pastures from the Premier League or Bundesliga (for example) come calling.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 39/50
Ter Stegen is not the biggest goalkeeper, standing just over 6'1", but he uses his frame advantageously. Quick to ground and decisive aerially, the German's reactions are better than average.
He is still learning the art of patience but has improved that department in his admittedly limited outings with Barcelona.
He stops what he is meant to stop and occasionally things he probably should concede.
Overall Rating: 78/100
One of Germany's top four goalkeepers, it would serve Ter Stegen to either demand a starting position at Barcelona or seek another club.
He cannot afford to fall behind Kevin Trapp or Bernd Leno in their collective pursuit of Manuel Neuer's job.
If Ter Stegen continues to miss league matches (while likely to make whatever international competition for Germany on reputation alone), he might never become his country's first choice—something unthinkable three seasons ago.
11. Salvatore Sirigu, Italy
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Command Rating: 40/50
It cannot have been easy for Salvatore Sirigu last season.
Replaced by Paris Saint-Germain manager Laurent Blanc with the up-and-coming Kevin Trapp, Italy's second-choice goalkeeper was a spectator. Starting just 12 games in all competitions, the 29-year-old—should Trapp remain PSG's No. 1 next year—must find another club who want his services.
That should not be too difficult.
A four-time French champion and two-time Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Year, Sirigu is an accomplished, seasoned veteran who has another decade of football in him.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 40/50
The Italian's 6'4" frame and accompanying athletic ability make him an ideal 'keeper.
Not too small, not too big—in a would-be Goldilocks zone for football's netminders—Sirigu has the size to cover his goal, plus the added/necessary benefits of speed, dexterity and sharp reflexes to save shots.
Overall Rating: 80/100
The heir to Gianluigi Buffon's gloves—unless passed over for the likes of Mattia Perin (23) or Gianluigi Donnarumma (17)—Sirigu has 15 Italy caps. He should not expect too much work at Euro 2016, but he is always one action (injury, red card, etc.) from being necessary.
Sirigu would at least be fresh for his national boss Antonio Conte; PSG saved him the trouble of playing in 2015/16.
10. Bernd Leno, Germany
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Command Rating: 39/50
Beginning his career with the VfB Stuttgart reserve team, Bernd Leno moved to Bayer Leverkusen in 2011. Starting for Bayer from age 19, the now-24-year-old has made more than 280 appearances.
Not ignoring one of 2015/16's worst conceded goals (in any of Europe's top five leagues) vs. Augsburg, Leno is normally sure-footed. His composure and concentration levels for a goalkeeper his age are tremendous.
Statistics suggest Leno has trouble completing long passes, but unlike his compatriot Kevin Trapp, for example, he is not aiming for Zlatan Ibrahimovic, but the small-in-stature Javier Hernandez.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 42/50
Enjoying maybe the perfect size for a goalkeeper, standing 6'3", Leno has the height to cover his corners and the agility to shoot from his line and shut down counter-attacks.
His natural speed is apparent with his reflexes but also his decision-making. Many young goalkeepers take unnecessary risks, but Leno keeps his composure and hardly gets found out.
Leverkusen have the third-best defence in the Bundesliga (behind Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund), and their youthful but experienced goalkeeper is a massive reason for that.
Overall Rating: 81/100
Another one of Germany's upstart goalkeepers, Leno is simply waiting for the demise of Manuel Neuer.
When that arrives, there will be around five 'keepers with eyes on Die Mannschaft's future vacancy. Euro 2016 will not be that opportunity, but the No. 1 with the best prospects should be Leno.
9. Steve Mandanda, France
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Command Rating: 38/50
Olympique de Marseille had a shocking 2015/16. Finishing 13th, their worst finish since 2000/01, the nine-time French champions' form was spasmodic at best.
Captain Steve Mandanda must take some blame for that regression, but he was named Ligue 1's 2015/16 Goalkeeper of the Year (retaining his title from 2014/15).
Starting 50 matches in all competitions, the 31-year-old cannot be responsible for his club's financial situations and selling/releasing the likes of Andre-Pierre Gignac, Giannelli Imbula or break-out West Ham United star Dimitri Payet.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 45/50
While Mandanda did not have the best season leadership-wise, he is a natural-born shot-stopper. In his relative prime as a goalkeeper, the Zaire-born France international has some of the best reflexes in world football.
Nine clean sheets in 36 league starts might not blend well with that information (based solely on this season), but 110 clean sheets in 334 Ligue 1 appearances does.
Overall Rating: 83/100
Mandanda is an experienced hand, with more than 500 senior matches at club level and 22 France caps.
He has been largely overshadowed by Hugo Lloris, but as far as second-choice national 'keepers go, the Frenchman is near the top—if not the top.
8. Iker Casillas, Spain
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Command Rating: 41/50
Iker Casillas' legacy is cemented. A five-time La Liga winner, three-time Champions League winner, two-time European Championship victor and 2010 FIFA World Cup champion, the Spanish goalkeeper is one of the more decorated in recent footballing history.
After 16 senior seasons and 725 appearances for Real Madrid, Casillas left Spain for neighbouring Portugal last summer on a free transfer—signing for one of the Primeira Liga's big three, FC Porto.
Double-digit clean sheets and 2016/17 Champions League qualification were made easier by the Spaniard's presence. An experienced operator with a wealth of domestic, European and international knowledge at his disposal, the now-35-year-old (while not the player he was five years ago) is still a great No. 1.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 42/50
Magnificent reflexes and anticipation since his 1999/00 emergence at the Santiago Bernabeu have long been Casillas' trademarks.
Longer in the proverbial tooth, those traits have diminished—as is customary and expected—but the Spain international has collected a reservoir of credit over his illustrious career, so most mistakes are credited to brilliant offence.
Overall Rating: 83/100
What becomes interesting, considering credit, is how national team boss Vicente del Bosque views Casillas heading into the Euro 2016.
Winners of the past two competitions, does Del Bosque show loyalty (perhaps blindly so) to his veteran, or does he play David De Gea?
For Spain's sake, he should choose the latter option—but that could cause tension.
7. Joe Hart, England
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Command Rating: 43/50
Two seasons ago, Joe Hart's Manchester City career hit a rocky patch. After he conceded a late goal to Chelsea's Fernando Torres at Stamford Bridge, manager Manuel Pellegrini sat the England international for nearly a month. Hart re-entered the side, found his form and helped the Citizens win the 2013/14 title.
Since then, the 29-year-old has been largely solid.
Hart is a vocal leader and commanding presence in the air—the 18-yard box is indisputably his.
With more than 450 club appearances and 58 England caps, Manchester City's No. 1 has reached his career's prime with countless minutes of experience.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 43/50
An underrated component of Hart's goalkeeping are his reflexes.
For a 6'5" footballer, and not what people understand as an athlete, the Englishman is quick. Being bulky, as well as tall, assists his efforts; when he makes himself big, shots simply hit him.
Rarely, if ever, beaten at his near post, Hart's awareness with shots is his country's best. Knowing whether to tip over his crossbar/post or leave shots, he saves his club corner kicks and his defenders unnecessary clean-up work.
Overall Rating: 86/100
If ever in doubt, with Jack Butland out of Euro 2016, Hart's starting place in Roy Hodgson's 23-man squad is 100 percent secured.
England will be taking a younger squad to an international tournament for the first time in a while; having the boisterous, passionate and experienced Manchester City netminder in goal is invaluable.
6. Hugo Lloris, France
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Command Rating: 43/50
Hugo Lloris made 146 Ligue 1 appearances for Olympique Lyonnais, just missing their run of seven consecutive French titles.
The Frenchman's best chance to win a league title (along with 2009/10) was this past season with Tottenham Hotspur. Joining the north Londoners four seasons ago, were it not for Leicester City's fairytale 2015/16 campaign, maybe he would have secured his first league winner's medal.
As a "sweeper 'keeper," Lloris' positioning is normally splendid. Quick off his line and an excellent judge of ball flight, the 29-year-old's patrolling of his area was crucial for Mauricio Pochettino's 2016/17 Champions League quest.
His major demerit is playing from the back. Lloris can place his team in difficult positions with sloppy play—but killing counter-attacks outweighs any build-up misgivings.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 46/50
Lloris is one of the more agile goalkeepers in world football, with tremendous reflexes. Capable of making spectacular saves on a consistent basis, the Frenchman can alter matches single-handedly.
The France international might improve his decision-making when catching or punching, but when compared to his other goalkeeping brethren, there are not many better in Europe.
Overall Rating: 89/100
Possibly the goalkeeper under the most pressure before Euro 2016, Lloris enjoyed a great season with Tottenham and should feel confident before helping host UEFA's pre-eminent international competition.
France are one of the Euros' favourites—their long-serving goalkeeper and captain is one of the primary reasons why.
5. Petr Cech, Czech Republic
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Command Rating: 45/50
As Chelsea's first-choice goalkeeper for 10 seasons, nobody thought Petr Cech would ever ply his trade for their London rivals Arsenal, but football is unpredictable in that way.
The Czech Republic international is an improvement on Wojciech Szczesny, but the north London side only made one upgrade in 2015/16, and they fell short.
Though Cech is still one of the Premier League elite goalkeepers, it was shown having Chelsea's defensive shell was a major advantage. With time, though, it stands to reason his rapport and leadership qualities will be better tailored to Arsenal's unique defensive style.
Occasionally Cech is caught out with crosses, and his aerial ability is a mixed bag. Some days his decision-making is woeful; on others, it is perfect.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 45/50
Shot-stopping was once a hallmark of Cech's game. In the past season, though, the 34-year-old seems to be regressing. In games against West Ham United and Manchester City, for example, shots that should be saved—especially at his near post—have found their way in.
Does this mean Cech is falling from his world-class status, or should Arsenal defenders be closing space, stopping shots their goalkeeper seldom saw at Chelsea? Maybe a combination of both.
If you need a penalty saved, however, Arsenal's No. 1 is still the goalkeeper you want.
Overall Rating: 90/100
Reaching the latter stage of his career, Cech has not found much international success (just the Euro 2004 semi-finals). Maybe the 2018 FIFA World Cup is within sight and, stretching his luck, Euro 2020, but time is running out for the helmeted goalkeeper internationally.
It seems you can choose your professional club, but you cannot choose where you are born.
4. Thibaut Courtois, Belgium
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Command Rating: 44/50
Thibaut Courtois did not have the best 2015/16. Chelsea offered possibly the worst Premier League title defence on record, and their primary goalkeeper was a culprit in that unwanted "accomplishment." Receiving two red cards and injured for 10 weeks, the Belgian was sporadic at best.
To explain his woes, it might be worth noting the absence of centre-back Kurt Zouma, right-back Branislav Ivanovic's putrid showing and the disappearance of central midfielder Nemanja Matic.
Despite extenuating circumstances, Courtois was not his usual self.
Shown with KRC Genk, Atletico Madrid and last year with Chelsea, the 24-year-old can command his box, catch crosses and lead his back four, but the chaos surrounding the Blues last season and his suspensions and injury cloud those memories.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 47/50
For a man standing 6'6", Courtois is surprisingly athletic. Able to reach all four corners of his goal in a flash, when the Belgian sees shots, they are usually saved or claimed. The combination of height, reflexes and anticipation makes Chelsea's 'keeper hard to beat—or at least they should.
This season, the inability to get down has been evident. Could his aforementioned injury (a torn meniscus in his right knee) be more problematic than first imagined? One might use Edinson Cavani's goal in the Champions League as evidence to suggest the possibility.
Overall Rating: 91/100
A few poor months cannot erase four seasons of world-class work; better yet, his 2014/15 campaign was so impressive Chelsea sold Petr Cech to Arsenal.
Belgium are a team with plenty of talent but not much experience in international tournaments—they are no longer dark horses at Euro 2016 but contenders.
For a deep run and potential final berth, Courtois must forget 2015/16 and reclaim the form that made him a Premier League champion.
3. Gianluigi Buffon, Italy
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Command Rating: 49/50
Juventus have won five straight Serie A titles, something they had not done since the 1930s. Many things have changed since the 2011/12 season, but one of the constants in the Old Lady's setup is their venerable goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon.
Approaching 800 senior appearances for Juventus and Parma, plus 156 Italian caps, he could be football's greatest-ever goalkeeper and remains one of the world's best.
Buffon is the consummate leader, always engaged and conducting his back line. Confidence exudes from his goal forward, and the 2006 World Cup winner and seven-time Serie A champion has copious winner's medals to prove his excellence.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 44/50
In earlier years, Buffon's shot-stopping rating would have been closer to 50, but "Father Time is undefeated," or so the saying goes. Still possessing great reflexes, the 38-year-old cannot be expected to have the same reactions that made him the world's most expensive goalkeeper 15 years ago.
Despite his decrease, the Juventus and Italy captain—relative to other goalkeepers—remains a supreme shot-stopper. Buffon's knowledge is unmatched at his position, making up for whatever athleticism has escaped.
Overall Rating: 93/100
Can the Juve legend play another two years and reach his sixth World Cup (which would be a record)? It's possible. He has the clout to demand favours, but Euro 2016 could be Buffon's last international tournament for Italy.
If his league form translates to the European Championship, however, the Azzurri are in great hands.
2. David De Gea, Spain
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Command Rating: 45/50
People talk about Atletico Madrid's centre-forward conveyor belt. Fernando Torres, Diego Forlan, Sergio Aguero, Radamel Falcao, Diego Costa and others have come from the Vicente Calderon, but Atleti's goalkeeping record is not to be overlooked.
Jan Oblak and Thibaut Courtois are the most recent recipients of the club's Midas touch, but before them came David De Gea. Sold to Manchester United, his first season at Old Trafford was not great, but Sir Alex Ferguson's belief in the young goalkeeper's abilities was steadfast.
After first struggling with the Premier League's physicality, De Gea has learned the English game. Far more composed in the air and measured in his starting position, the Spaniard has certainly elevated his game.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 50/50
Without much debate, De Gea is the world's best shot-stopper; one wonders whether the 25-year-old is part cat. His acrobatic saves and lightning reflexes are second to none.
Some suggest players simply shoot at the Manchester United goalkeeper. That is normally meant in a demeaning fashion, but it rings true because of De Gea's near-post and far-post awareness. It seems like the Spain international gets hit with shots because his anticipation and game-reading are world class.
Overall Rating: 95/100
Ideally, De Gea starts at the Euros, without question. He can argue being the world's best goalkeeper, but Iker Casillas' shadow still looms over Vicente del Bosque's goalposts. The younger talent only played in three of his country's 10 European qualifiers.
Does that continue into Euro 2016? Casillas remains the captain; he is no longer Spain's best No. 1, but it is not obvious whether that actually matters.
1. Manuel Neuer, Germany
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Command Rating: 49/50
Manuel Neuer was made at Schalke 04 but established himself as Earth's best goalkeeper at Bayern Munich. For five seasons, he has been a catalyst for the Bavarians' success, both domestically and in Europe.
Perfecting the sweeper-keeper role, Neuer is quick off his line and—after playing under the possession-hungry Pep Guardiola for the last three seasons—is ever improving his distribution.
Amassing over 520 appearances for club and country, the Germany international is widely recognised as a commanding presence. Rarely under siege (but having to stay vigilant), when Neuer is called upon, his concentration levels are exemplary.
Great hands and confidence go miles for goalkeepers. The 30-year-old has both.
Shot-Stopping Rating: 48/50
Combined with his general-like qualities, Neuer's anticipation for danger is paramount to his success. When sweeping does not work, his reflexes are quality.
His teams are normally the ones testing the reactions of others, but when situations arise for either his club or Germany, the No. 1 essentially becomes a 6'4" wall, who—on occasion—carries an aura that if he does not want you to score, you won't.
Overall Rating: 97/100
There are goalkeepers who do individual things better than Neuer—or who have more innate qualities—but there isn't a more complete package than the Germany international in Europe or, indeed, the world.
Bayern Munich and Die Mannschaft benefit from their first-choice 'keeper's aggressive (yet also cultured) style; they both have the trophies to show.
*Stats and transfer fees via WhoScored.com, Transfermarkt and Soccerbase where not noted.
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