The 13 Best Goalkeepers in the World Right Now – Ranked

November 6, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

In the ever-evolving world of modern football, goalkeepers are no longer just shot-stoppers — they are playmakers, leaders, and tactical anchors. From seasoned legends to emerging stars, the 2025/26 season has seen an incredible display of skill, consistency, and resilience from the men between the posts. This list highlights the twelve best goalkeepers in the world right now, ranked from number 12 to the undisputed number one.

13. André Onana – Trabzonspor

Andre Onana — Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

Onana is a Cameroonian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Süper Lig club Trabzonspor, on loan from Premier League side Manchester United. After a turbulent start in England, he has regained confidence and rhythm in Turkey, showcasing the reflexes and footwork that once made him one of Europe’s most dynamic keepers. His ability to play out from the back and command his box has helped restore his reputation. If he maintains this form, Onana could soon return to the top level with renewed authority.

12. Gregor Kobel – Borussia Dortmund

The towering Swiss goalkeeper has become a cornerstone for Borussia Dortmund, combining shot-stopping power with calm authority. His performances in the Champions League last season, where he saved seven goals above expected, showcased his elite reflexes. At 27, Kobel has fully matured into one of Europe’s most consistent keepers. Dortmund’s defensive confidence often begins with his commanding presence between the posts.

11. Unai Simón – Athletic Club

Spain’s number one continues to uphold the Basque tradition of outstanding goalkeepers. Despite a wrist injury that disrupted his rhythm last season, he quickly regained form with 12 clean sheets in La Liga. Simón stands out for his composure with the ball and excellent distribution under pressure. When fully fit, he remains a vital figure for both Athletic Club and the Spanish national team.

10. Emiliano Martínez – Aston Villa

Emiliano Martinez — lev radin / Shutterstock.com

Emi Martínez’s journey from Arsenal backup to World Cup hero has been remarkable. His performances for Argentina in Qatar 2022 earned him the Yashin Trophy and the FIFA Best Goalkeeper award. At Aston Villa, he continues to deliver crucial saves in high-pressure moments. His confidence, charisma, and penalty-saving ability make him one of the most clutch goalkeepers in the modern game.

9. Joan García – Barcelona

Joan Garcia — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

After a breakout season at Espanyol, Joan García’s move to Barcelona has been nothing short of impressive. The young Spaniard has quickly displaced Marc-André ter Stegen thanks to his reflexes and ball-playing ability. Calm under pressure, he combines modern composure with traditional shot-stopping instincts. García’s rapid rise makes him one of Europe’s most exciting goalkeeping prospects.

8. Manuel Neuer – Bayern Munich

At 39 years old, Manuel Neuer continues to defy time and expectations. The legendary sweeper-keeper, who revolutionized the role, remains a vital figure for Bayern Munich. After recovering from injury setbacks, his agility and reading of the game have returned to their usual excellence. Few players in world football have maintained such consistency and influence over two decades.

7. Mike Maignan – AC Milan

Replacing Gianluigi Donnarumma seemed impossible, but Mike Maignan has proved more than capable. His sharp reflexes, leadership, and composure have been key to Milan’s resurgence. The Frenchman combines athleticism with intelligence, commanding his box and organizing the defense efficiently. Once again, he’s a major reason why Milan are competing near the top of Serie A.

6. Yann Sommer – Inter Milan

Yann Sommer’s consistency continues to set him apart as one of Europe’s most reliable goalkeepers. After a brief but successful stint at Bayern Munich, he has excelled at Inter Milan. Last season, he helped the Nerazzurri reclaim the Scudetto with record-breaking clean sheets. Even at 36, Sommer remains sharp, focused, and a model of reliability between the posts.

5. Jan Oblak – Atlético Madrid

Jan Oblak’s form may have dipped slightly in recent years, but his reputation as a defensive wall endures. The Slovenian has long been the backbone of Diego Simeone’s resilient Atlético Madrid side. His calm demeanor and penalty-saving heroics in Europe remind fans of his world-class pedigree. Few goalkeepers can control a penalty area with such authority and anticipation.

4. Gianluigi Donnarumma – Manchester City

Now thriving at Manchester City, Donnarumma has finally found the environment to match his immense potential. After early struggles at PSG, he’s matured into a complete and commanding shot-stopper. The Italian remains a key figure for his national team and has translated that form to the Premier League. At just 26, he’s already a veteran with years of excellence ahead.

3. David Raya – Arsenal

David Raya has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout goalkeepers since joining Arsenal. Known for his comfort on the ball and lightning reactions, he embodies the modern keeper. With 11 clean sheets in 14 games, his consistency has been instrumental in Arsenal’s defensive dominance. Calm, calculated, and confident, Raya looks set to collect another Golden Glove.

2. Thibaut Courtois – Real Madrid

Thibaut Courtois has returned from injury to reassert his place among the world’s elite. His heroic performances in Champions League finals have become legendary for Real Madrid supporters. The Belgian giant combines unmatched reach with impeccable positioning and timing. When fully fit, he’s nearly unbeatable — a goalkeeper built for the biggest occasions.

1. Alisson Becker – Liverpool

Alisson Becker remains the benchmark for modern goalkeeping — a perfect blend of composure, technique, and leadership. Since joining Liverpool, he’s transformed their defense and helped deliver both Premier League and Champions League glory. His ability to make impossible saves look effortless defines his greatness. Simply put, Alisson is the gold standard by which all others are measured.