For practically 20 years, Manuel Neuer has redefined what it means to be a goalkeeper. While his unbelievable reflexes and shot-stopping have earned numerous accolades, it’s his consolation with the ball at his toes that actually revolutionized the place.
Reflecting on his love for the sport, Neuer defined what makes playing in objective so rewarding.
”I actually love being a goalkeeper. I really like making saves within the field, on my line. But it’s additionally at all times a pleasure for me to have the ball at my toes, to be concerned within the build-up play, to be the instigator of an assault, to see a cross that may beat 4 or 5 opponents and create a scoring alternative. I actually take pleasure in each,” Neuer instructed L’Equipe (as captured by @iMiaSanMia)
Those feedback completely seize why Neuer has been so influential all through his profession. He has by no means considered himself as merely the final line of protection. Instead, he has embraced the position of being the primary attacker, serving to Bayern Munich and Germany management possession and launch harmful strikes from deep.
What as soon as appeared unconventional has change into the blueprint for contemporary goalkeeping. Young keepers around the globe at the moment are anticipated to distribute the ball confidently, learn the sport outdoors the penalty space, and contribute to build-up play.
For Neuer, nevertheless, it has by no means been about altering soccer. It has merely been about having fun with each facet of the place—and in doing so, he modified it without end.
