Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is once again in contention to be recognised as the best goalkeeper in the world, following another FIFA Best award.
The Belgian goalkeeper was at an excellent level again domestically and in the Champions League in the first half of the year, and lifted the Copa del Rey with Real Madrid. However his absence due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the second half of 2023 means that Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson is the favourite, coming off the back of a year in which he won it all.
Former Sevilla goalkeeper Yassine Bounou is also nominated, and his performance at last year’s World Cup could weigh heavily, in particular playing a key role in Morocco’s progress past Spain.
First finalists for The Best FIFA Football Awards™ 2023 revealed.
The finalists for The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper are (in alphabetical order):
Mackenzie Arnold (Australia / West Ham United FC)
Catalina Coll (Spain / FC Barcelona)
Mary Earps (England / Manchester United) pic.twitter.com/rD4dtIvtzH— FIFA Media (@fifamedia) December 12, 2023
Meanwhile on the women’s side, Barcelona goalkeeper Cata Coll will compete against Mary Earps of England and Chelsea, and Mackenzie Arnold of Australia and West Ham. Coll is not the undisputed number one for Barcelona, a role that generally belongs to Sandra Panos, but Coll was trusted in goal by Spain for their run to the World Cup trophy. Earps is thought to be in pole position.
I’m a little surprised that Ter Stegen didn’t at least make the list given the season he had in 22-23, although I do understand that international play is factored in and that Neuer is pretty much the default starter for Germany (for better or worse).
Still though, his record in La Liga was nothing short of historic. A little disappointed that he was left out, tbh.