Legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon has named Iker Casillas and Manuel Neuer as two goalkeepers better than himself in the all-time ranking, during an interview in 2023.
The Italian called quit to a 28-year career last summer having played more than 1,000 games as a professional for clubs and the Italian national team, with whom he won the FIFA World Cup in 2006.
Gianluigi Buffon, who is considered an all-time best goalkeeper duo to his consistent performance throughout his career as a professional has said that he ranks third in the all-time list from his own perspective, ranking both Iker Casilas and Manuel Neuer ahead.
Gianluigi Buffon names two goalkeepers better than self
Speaking in an interview in August 2023, Buffon said,
“I thank people who consider me the best goalkeeper of all time, but that’s not the case. They think that because I lasted a long time. But for me, the best goalkeeper of all times comes from Spain – Iker Casillas played for the biggest club in Europe and he won everything, both at club and with his national side.
His track record shows that he is above the rest, and he is a true leader.
I haven’t won everything in football, and I think I should be considered number three or four because number two is Manuel Neuer. He has also won everything at club level, as well as a World Cup.
That’s why I think I’m number three, but that’s just my opinion.” Said the now 46-year-old.
Buffon has always been vocal about how much he rates Iker Casillas. In 2015, the former Juventus showstopper said in an interview with Marca;
“The best goalkeeper of my era has been Casillas. He’s always been the best with his hands. In recent years, Cech and [Manuel] Neuer.” He added.
