Manuel Neuer

Manuel Neuer redefined modern goalkeeping by establishing the "sweeper-keeper" as a mainstream tactical requirement rather than an eccentric quirk. He won the 2014 World Cup with Germany, the 2013 Champions League with Bayern Munich, and 8 consecutive Bundesliga titles. He was named IFFHS World's Best Goalkeeper six consecutive times (2013–18). His ability to act as an auxiliary sweeper — regularly coming 30–40 yards from goal to intercept through balls — changed how defensive units are now constructed at elite level.