Euro 2024 will kick off on Friday, June 14th in Germany, and one of the most crucial positions on the field will be that of the goalkeeper.
With several world-class shot-stoppers set to showcase their talents, we take a look at some goalkeepers who could make the biggest impact at Euro 2024.
1. Manuel Neuer (Germany)
At the top of the list is the legendary Manuel Neuer of Germany. The 38-year-old Bayern Munich star, who stands at 1.93m, is one of the most decorated goalkeepers in the game, having won the World Cup, Champions League, and numerous Bundesliga titles.
Despite his age, Neuer remains one of the best in the business and will be aiming to use his profound experience to add the European Championship to his illustrious collection of trophies, given that the Euros are on home soil.
2. Jan Oblak (Slovenia)
The Atletico Madrid faithful is widely regarded as one of the finest goalkeepers in the world, and his massive presence between the sticks will be crucial to his nation’s hopes of causing an upset at the tournament.
Oblak is one of the best Slovenian players, and having kept a number of clean sheets, 16 to be exact in 54 appearances for the 2023/24 season, he’ll be aiming to do the same at the Euros, and maybe help propel his side to victory.
3.Gianluigi Donnarumma (Italy)
The 25-year-old was the player of the tournament at the EURO 2020. Since then, he has amassed a wealth of experience, having been a regular starter for PSG in recent seasons.
His performances last season, which saw him concede just 20 goals and keep 14 clean sheets, have cemented his status as one of the best in the business. The 6′ 5″ tall goalkeeper will be aiming to defend his 2020 accolade, and can only do so through being at his best at this year’s Euros.
4. Yann Sommer (Switzerland)
Switzerland’s Yann Sommer is another goalkeeper who has been making waves in recent years. Having conceded just 19 goals all season, last season in Italy, the Swiss is definitely a force to be reckoned with at the upcoming Euros.
The 35-year-old, now playing for Inter Milan, helped his team become champions, and was awarded the Golden Glove in Serie A last season. He will be hoping to lead his nation, Switzerland to success in Germany.
5. Unai Simon (Spain)
Simon was a superb performer for Spanish side Athletic Club last season. He won La Liga’s Golden Glove and finished with asave percentage of 74.4%, the best in the division.
Although the 26-year old player faces stiff competition from David Raya, who also won the Golden Glove for Arsenal in England, Unai Simon seems to be the preferred option for Spain coach Luis de la Fuente as the first-choice keeper. He will be hoping to maintain his spot, and in turn help his country clinch their 4th record EURO title.
6. Jordan Pickford (England)
Jordan Pickford’s stellar displays for England at major tournaments make him a formidable presence in goal for the Three Lions. Je is always very good on international duty, which makes the 30-year old England’s undisputed No. 1.
To make things better for him and his country, Pickford will be heading into the Euros with great form, having kept 5 clean sheets in their last eight games of the Premier League season for Everton. This, coupled with his shot-stopping abilities may help tournament favourites England take home their first European silverware.
7. Diogo Costa (Portugal)
The 24-year-old FC Porto goalkeeper has been earning great reviews in his home country and is tipped to be one of the breakout stars of the tournament.
He kept 15 clean sheets in 45 appearances in the just concluded season, the joint most clean sheets in Portugal, which helped the side to qualify for Europa league.
With a strong defence comprising of Ruben Dias, Nuno Mendez, Joao Cancelo and Antonio Silva to shield him, EURO 2024 could be Diogo Costa’s time to shine.
