„He has changed the goalkeeping game“: Arsenal star Raya raves about Neuer | OneFootball

Manuel Neuer is considered by many experts, players and fellow goalkeepers to be the best keeper in soccer history. Now David Raya, one of the best goalkeepers currently in the Premier League, has spoken out about the Bayern captain – and has chosen big words

Even at the age of 40, Manuel Neuer enjoys the highest respect worldwide. The FC Bayern goalkeeper has shaped the international goalkeeping game for more than a decade and a half and is considered by many observers to be the benchmark in his position

In recent years, numerous current and former goalkeepers have publicly praised the national goalkeeper. Now David Raya has also joined this list. The Spanish international keeper from Arsenal FC spoke about the greatest goalkeepers of all time in a social media format and had particularly complimentary words for the Bayern star

Raya made it clear how important Neuer is to him personally, with the Arsenal keeper unhesitatingly ranking the German among the best goalkeepers in soccer history

„He is unbelievable“

The Spaniard is particularly impressed by Neuer’s influence on the development of the position. „Manuel Neuer is incredible, he is still delivering at his age. He has changed a lot, the way people see the game of goalkeeping,“ explained Raya

The 30-year-old is referring to an aspect that is also highlighted by many coaches and experts: Neuer revolutionized the modern goalkeeping game with his interpretation of the so-called co-playing keeper, influencing an entire generation of goalkeepers

Raya himself is one of the goalkeepers who have adopted many elements of this style of play. The Spaniard is also characterized by his strong opening, his presence outside the penalty area and his technical quality on the ball

Interestingly, before his move to Arsenal, Raya was repeatedly linked with FC Bayern. However, the Spaniard ultimately decided to make the move to London. Looking back, he has repeatedly stated that the prospect of being the clear number one at Arsenal was an important factor in his decision

Neuer faces last World Cup and final chapter in his career

photo: Getty Images

Both goalkeepers will be back on the big stage at the World Cup: while Raya will be between the posts for Spain, Neuer – provided he fully recovers from his recent injuries – will start the tournament as the DFB’s number one

The Bayern captain’s nomination has not always been viewed positively, with some experts expressing doubts as to whether the veteran is still the ideal solution for the national team due to his recurring physical problems

However, Neuer continues to enjoy great confidence within the DFB, with his experience, leadership qualities and international class seen as important factors for Julian Nagelsmann’s team

At the same time, the World Cup is likely to be the last major tournament of his national team career, with Neuer expected to end his career in the DFB team after the tournament

However, the 2014 World Cup winner will remain at FC Bayern for a little longer. Just a few months ago, Neuer extended his contract by a further year until 2027, after which Jonas Urbig will take over the baton in Munich’s goal

Until then, however, Neuer continues to collect accolades from all over the world. David Raya’s words once again show the influence the Bayern captain has had on an entire generation of goalkeepers – and why many consider him to be the best keeper of all time.