Manuel Neuer remains a dominant goalkeeper at 38. His latest performance proves it as he starred when Bayern Munich faced Bayer Leverkusen in the UEFA Champions League on 5 March 2025.
Neuer pulled off a superb save to deny Jeremie Frimpong in the first half. That moment helped Bayern Munich (2.50) maintain control and win 3-0. For soccer betting enthusiasts who had backed Bayern, as well as their supporters, it was a crucial moment. His performance was a reminder of his quality. He remains a key player for Bayern in big games. Is Manuel Neuer the greatest goalkeeper alive?
Neuer’s Longevity and Achievements
Neuer has won almost everything. He lifted the FIFA World Cup with Germany in 2014. He also has two UEFA Champions League titles with Bayern Munich.
Despite being 38, Neuer remains a world-class goalkeeper. His shot-stopping ability is still exceptional. He continues to perform in the biggest matches. His reflexes and decision-making are as sharp as ever. Age has not diminished his ability to command the box.
Many goalkeepers decline in their late 30s. Neuer has defied this trend. His performance against Bayer Leverkusen showed that he is still among the best. He has adapted his game as he has aged, relying more on positioning and experience. His ability to read the game helps him stay at the top level.
Neuer has also won multiple Bundesliga titles with Bayern. He has been the undisputed number one for club and country for over a decade. Few goalkeepers can maintain such consistency for so long.
A Goalkeeper Who Changed the Game
Neuer is not just a great shot-stopper. He revolutionised the role of a goalkeeper. His “sweeper-keeper” style changed modern soccer.
He is comfortable playing out from the back. He rushes out of his area to clear danger. His passing ability allows Bayern to build from defence. His skill with the ball at his feet is unmatched among goalkeepers.
Younger goalkeepers now copy his style. Top teams want goalkeepers who can play with their feet. Neuer set the standard. His influence is clear in goalkeepers like Ederson, Alisson, and Marc-André ter Stegen. The modern game demands keepers who can distribute the ball as well as they can save it.
Neuer’s confidence under pressure is another key factor. He takes risks but rarely makes mistakes. His ability to act as an extra defender gives his team more tactical flexibility. Managers now look for goalkeepers who can play like him.
Greatest Goalkeeper Ever? Neuer vs. Buffon and Others
Many legends have played in goal. Gianluigi Buffon is one of Neuer’s biggest competitors for the greatest of all time (GOAT) title. Buffon won multiple Serie A titles and the FIFA World Cup in 2006.
Buffon had an incredible career. He played until he was 45. His longevity is unmatched. However, he was more of a traditional goalkeeper. He was a brilliant shot-stopper but did not influence the game the way Neuer has.
Other greats include Iker Casillas, who won the UEFA Champions League and the FIFA World Cup. Casillas was a leader for Real Madrid and Spain. Lev Yashin is the only goalkeeper to win the Ballon d’Or. His performances in the 1960s made him a legend. Petr Cech was a key figure for Chelsea (305.36). He won multiple Premier League titles and the UEFA Champions League.
Neuer, however, offers something unique. He combined elite shot-stopping with modern distribution skills. His influence on the game sets him apart. He redefined goalkeeping for future generations.
His ability to perform on the biggest stage is another factor. He played a crucial role in Germany’s 2014 FIFA World Cup win. His sweeping and leadership from the back helped shape Germany’s playing style. He also dominated in the UEFA Champions League, making key saves in finals.
The Verdict
Manuel Neuer has achieved legendary goalkeeper status. His trophy cabinet is impressive. His performances remain top-class. He has stayed at the top level for nearly two decades. Very few goalkeepers have done this.
He changed how goalkeepers play. Few others have had such an impact. Neuer’s influence can be seen in the way modern goalkeepers approach the game. His legacy will last long after he retires.
More importantly, his case for the GOAT title is strong. If he continues to shine at 38, it becomes even stronger. His consistency, influence, and achievements make him a true legend. Whether he is the greatest ever is still up for debate. However, he is undoubtedly one of the best to ever play the game.
