Ahead of this year’s Goal 50, we want to know who you think has been the best shot stopper during the 2012-13 campaign
POLL
The latest Goal 50 for 2012-13 is fast approaching as we review the best players from all regions of the world over the previous season.
This is the sixth edition of the award, which has previously been won by current holder Cristiano Ronaldo (twice), Barcelona star Lionel Messi (twice) and Wesley Sneijder in 2010.
As part of the build-up to this year’s prize, we are running a series of polls asking readers to vote for their own best players in each position for what should be an intriguing debate.
We kick off with the goalkeepers and there are a number of high-profile candidates who can lay claim to having been the best player between the sticks over the last 12 months.
Manuel Neuer secured treble glory with Bayern Munich as their resolute defensive record served as the base from which they claimed the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal and Champions League.
Thibaut Courtois was inspired for Atletico Madrid, on loan from Chelsea, as they beat city rivals Real Madrid to win the Copa Del Rey, while Atleti also enjoyed the best defensive record in La Liga.
At the Bernabeu, Diego Lopez was at the centre of a huge controversy after Jose Mourinho continued to select him in favour of the dropped Iker Casillas. Even Casillas’ biggest fans, though, did not begrudge the widespread view that Lopez showed excellent form throughout his time in the side.
Gianluigi Buffon and Samir Handanovic were amongst the standout performers in Serie A, while David de Gea was voted in the PFA’s Team of the Season after his performances for champions Manchester United in the Premier League.
HAVE YOUR SAY
In total we have 15 goalkeepers up for your vote to decide on the best goalkeeper for the 2012-13 season.
Let us know your thoughts by voting in our poll and leaving your comments below. You can also get in touch via our Facebook and Twitter pages.