sportnews full logo

Top 20 Premier League Goalkeepers in 2026

The Premier League has a rich history of legendary goalkeepers like Peter Schmeichel, Petr Cech, and Edwin van der Sar. In the 2025/26 season, fans are witnessing an impressive collection of talented shot-stoppers. The role of a goalkeeper has evolved beyond just making saves—now they also command their area and initiate attacks with sharp distribution.

This season, many keepers aim to avoid the so-called 'second season syndrome', while others like Gianluigi Donnarumma and Martin Dubravka are settling into new clubs. Here's a ranking of the top 20 Premier League goalkeepers currently playing, based on several key factors.

Criteria for Ranking

  • Clean Sheets: Number of matches without conceding goals, though team defense strength varies.
  • Importance to Club: Consistency in critical saves and overall impact.
  • Distribution: Ability to start attacks with accurate passing.
  • Shot-Stopping: Frequency of world-class saves in the toughest league.

20. Martin Dubravka - Burnley

After serving mostly as a backup at Newcastle, the 37-year-old moved to Burnley in 2025 and became a steady presence despite the team's struggles. Though results have been tough, Dubravka offers leadership and calm during a relegation fight.

  • Clean Sheets: 4
  • Saves: 127
  • Goals Against: 71

19. James Trafford - Manchester City

Following a stellar Championship season, Trafford returned to Manchester City but found limited opportunities behind Gianluigi Donnarumma. Most appearances came in cup games, leading to speculation about another move.

  • Clean Sheets: 1
  • Saves: 11
  • Goals Against: 4

18. Djordje Petrovic - Bournemouth

After a successful loan at Strasbourg, Petrovic chose Bournemouth over Chelsea for more playing time. He’s been reliable, keeping four clean sheets in nine matches before a mid-season slump.

  • Clean Sheets: 10
  • Saves: 101
  • Goals Against: 52

17. Robert Sanchez - Chelsea

Sanchez’s performances have fluctuated. While capable of brilliant saves and strong passing, inconsistency remains a problem. He’s shown promise in the Club World Cup but needs steadier displays.

  • Clean Sheets: 9
  • Saves: 91
  • Goals Against: 44

16. Guglielmo Vicario - Tottenham

Signed from Empoli to replace Hugo Lloris, Vicario has had ups and downs. He demonstrated solid shot-stopping and sweeper-keeper skills but is still prone to errors, limiting his rise in rankings.

  • Clean Sheets: 7
  • Saves: 83
  • Goals Against: 50

15. Jose Sa - Wolverhampton Wanderers

With Wolves struggling near the bottom, Sa has been a rare bright spot since returning as first choice. Despite improved performances, the team’s defensive woes make it hard for him to feature higher.

  • Clean Sheets: 4
  • Saves: 54
  • Goals Against: 35

14. Giorgi Mamardashvili - Liverpool

The Georgian joined Liverpool in 2024 but was loaned back to Valencia. Injuries to Alisson gave him chances this season where he showed promise, even as the team struggled overall.

  • Clean Sheets: 2
  • Saves: 27
  • Goals Against: 13

13. Bart Verbruggen - Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton continues to find young talent like Verbruggen, who has been consistent if not spectacular. At 23, the Dutch keeper shows the qualities needed for modern goalkeeping with room to improve.

  • Clean Sheets: 9
  • Saves: 99
  • Goals Against: 42

12. Nick Pope - Newcastle United

Pope is known for his shot-stopping but has faced some shaky moments this season. With competition from Aaron Ramsdale, his place might be under threat if inconsistency continues.

  • Clean Sheets: 7
  • Saves: 73
  • Goals Against: 34

11. Matz Sels - Nottingham Forest

Sels played a key role in Nottingham Forest’s surprising rise last season. After a slow start to 2025/26, he’s shown signs of bouncing back with recent clean sheets against big teams.

  • Clean Sheets: 7
  • Saves: 82
  • Goals Against: 34

Related Articles