Recognition of goalkeepers among the best performing players has for so long been an overlooked aspect. However, in the 2021 Ballon d’Or the most overlooked players were recognized, with Italian Gianluigi Donarumma termed the best at the moment. Goalkeepers are no longer viewed as goal-tenders only anymore; with the current football dynamics, the keeper is a special player especially when it comes to restarts as well as distributions.

Donarumma, currently at PSG after making a free transfer move from Milan last season, proved he can be a worthy replacement for Italian great Gianluigi Buffon with his heroics at Euro 2020. Donarumma was especially instrumental in Italy’s return to glory, when he saved two penalties in the Euro final to break England’s hearts at Wembley in July. At 22, he is already great and has the command as well as the physique.

Donarumma may not yet be playing regularly for PSG as he is still adapting to the challenges of a new league but you can bet on him learning from established team mates in training and when the daily betting tips on SportyTrader back PSG to prevail in their matches, Donarumma’s presence will be key in the reasoning.

Jan Oblak: The Atletico Madrid keeper has been a pillar for the Spanish champions. He was the best in La Liga last season and though he keeps quite a low profile for a keeper of his caliber, his saves are usually high profile and have over the years been crucial in Atletico’s success. His best performances have come in one on one situations and he commands his area expertly. Whenever the team registers the best defence in the season, he is always a key player.

Manuel Neuer: The German keeper was once a serious contender for the Ballon d’Or. In 2019/10, as skipper, he pushed Bayern to win a treble and last season he was at it again as the German giants bagged a ninth straight Bundesliga crown. He is best known as a keeper sweeper and regularly launches attacks from his position. Neuer is currently 35 but still performing at the top; on his day, he can be unbeatable.

Ederson Moraes: Manchester City keeper Ederson Moraes is one of the top players in his position in the world, and among his top attributes is ball distribution. At 28, he still has a lot of years to perform at the top of his game and three Premier League titles to his name just about tells the story of his capabilities. His adaptability to Manchester City’s style of play has blended well with his growth as a player and he seems settled well for both club and county.

Edouard Mendy: Senegalese keeper Mendy has transformed Chelsea’s fortunes since his arrival last season. He was instrumental in the Blues winning the UEFA Champions League and so far he has been key for Chelsea, who are currently top of the table in the Premier League. He has conceded just five times in the league this season, which already makes him a frontrunner for the best keeper’s gong.