Top 5 Greatest Goalkeepers in the World Right Now – November 2025 Definitive Ranking

      The goalkeeper position has never been completely revolutionized in the 21st century. Once seen as the last line of defence, today’s elite keepers are sweeper-keepers, playmakers, and leaders who can win games with their feet as much as their hands. As of November 2025, here are the five best goalkeepers on the planet — ranked from #1 to #5 based on current form, big-game performances, statistics, leadership, and overall impact on their team’s success. These are the men who make the impossible look routine.

#1 – Thibaut Courtois – Real Madrid (Belgium, 33)

The king is back — and he’s better than ever. After missing nearly all of the 2024/25 season with an ACL injury, Courtois has returned in 2025/26 like a man possessed. In 22 appearances across all competitions, he has 15 clean sheets, an 88% save percentage, and has conceded only 12 goals. His performance in the Champions League quarter-final against Manchester City — 9 saves, including a 94th-minute penalty stop — was described by Carlo Ancelotti as “the best goalkeeping display I’ve ever seen.”

At 6'7", Courtois combines freakish reach with cat-like reflexes. His command of the box is unmatched — 3.8 claims per game — and his distribution (85% long-ball accuracy) launches Madrid’s counter-attacks. The 2022 Champions League final (where he made 9 saves against Liverpool) remains the benchmark, but his 2025 form has been even more dominant. When fit, there is simply no debate — Courtois is the best goalkeeper in the world.

#2 – Gianluigi Donnarumma – Paris Saint-Germain (Italy, 26)

Euro 2020 hero at 22, now the complete modern goalkeeper at 26. Donnarumma’s 2025/26 season has been ridiculous: 12 clean sheets in 20 games, 86% save percentage, and 3 penalty saves already. His 6'5" frame, lightning reflexes, and ice-cold mentality under pressure have made PSG’s defence the best in Europe this season.

What sets Donnarumma apart is his distribution — 92% pass accuracy, often starting attacks with 60-yard throws or pinpoint passes. Italy’s number one since he was 17, he’s already played 65 internationals and kept 30 clean sheets. At 26, he’s entering his prime and could dominate for the next decade.

#3 – Alisson Becker – Liverpool (Brazil, 33)

The Brazilian wall. Champions League and Premier League winner, Alisson remains the gold standard for the modern goalkeeper. His 2025/26 form has been exceptional: 14 clean sheets in 25 games, 82% save percentage, and that famous assist record (he’s still the only keeper with a Premier League assist). His one-on-one saves are legendary — Liverpool concede half as many goals when he plays.

Alisson’s composure under pressure is unmatched. His distribution is elite (88% long-ball accuracy), and his leadership has been crucial during Liverpool’s title challenge. At 33, he’s still at his peak — the perfect blend of reflexes, reading of the game, and big-match mentality.

#4 – Mike Maignan – AC Milan (France, 30)

The most underrated goalkeeper on the planet. Maignan has been a revelation since replacing Donnarumma at Milan. 2025/26 stats: 85% save percentage, 3.2 punches per game, and 12 clean sheets in 22 matches. His aerial dominance and 1v1 mastery have made Milan’s defence the stingiest in Serie A.

France’s #1 since Hugo Lloris retired, Maignan is the complete package — commanding, agile, and a leader. His performance in the 2024/25 Champions League knockout stages (including a penalty save against Bayern) showed he’s ready for the very biggest stage.

#5 – Ederson – Manchester City (Brazil, 32)

The original sweeper-keeper. Ederson’s 2025/26 season has been vintage: 12 clean sheets already, 94% pass accuracy, and 8 assists from goal kicks — yes, assists. His ability to play like an extra midfielder makes City’s high line possible. When he’s on form, he’s untouchable — and he’s been on form all season.

Honourable Mentions

• Jan Oblak – Atlético Madrid (still world-class at 32)
• Gregor Kobel – Borussia Dortmund (the next big thing)
• Diogo Costa – Porto (Portugal’s rising star)
• Giorgi Mamardashvili – Valencia (Georgia’s hero)
• Unai Simón – Athletic Bilbao (Spain’s #1)

Conclusion

The goalkeeper position has never been more demanding — and these five are the best on the planet right now. Courtois is back on the throne, but Donnarumma, Alisson, Maignan, and Ederson are right there with him. The future is bright too — with Kobel, Mamardashvili, and others waiting in the wings.

Who’s your #1 goalkeeper in world football today? Drop your take in the comments — I reply to every one!

Disclaimer: Rankings based on form and stats as of November 2025. See our Privacy Policy for details.