Top 5 young goalkeepers set to dominate European football

While attacking talent often steals the headlines, Europe's next generation of goalkeepers is quietly readying itself to step into the spotlight. Clubs across the continent are nurturing exceptional young goalkeeping talent, with these ten promising stars expected to dominate European football for years to come.

1. Gavin Bazunu (Southampton, Ireland, 23)

Despite Southampton’s relegation struggles, Ireland’s Gavin Bazunu has been outstanding, consistently showcasing maturity beyond his years. A product of Manchester City's academy, his commanding presence, excellent reflexes, and leadership skills have marked him as one of Europe's most promising talents between the posts. Bazunu, already Ireland’s number one, is poised for a high-profile move back to a top European club in the near future.

2. Giorgi Mamardashvili (Valencia, Georgia, 24)

Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili has agreed to join Liverpool ahead of the 2025–26 season. The Reds secured the 24-year-old's signature from Valencia for a reported fee of £25 million, with an additional £4 million in potential add-ons. Mamardashvili will remain with Valencia for the remainder of the current campaign before making the move to Anfield. His standout performances at Euro 2024, where he helped Georgia reach the round of 16, have cemented his reputation as one of Europe's most promising goalkeepers.

3. Bart Verbruggen (Brighton, Netherlands, 22)

Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen is the latest young talent flourishing under Roberto De Zerbi’s innovative approach at Brighton. His outstanding ball distribution, coupled with sharp reflexes and decisive goalkeeping, makes him an ideal modern-day goalkeeper. Verbruggen’s trajectory suggests he is set to follow a similar path as fellow countryman Edwin van der Sar, attracting attention from Europe’s elite clubs.

4. Maarten Vandevoordt (RB Leipzig, Belgium, 23)

Belgium’s future in goalkeeping appears secure with Maarten Vandevoordt, who will join RB Leipzig from Genk in summer 2025. Known for his agility, composure, and ability to play out from the back, Vandevoordt embodies the modern goalkeeper. Already a record holder as the youngest goalkeeper in Champions League history, his move to the Bundesliga should further accelerate his ascent to the elite.

5. Lucas Chevalier (Lille, France, 23)

France continues its tradition of producing world-class talent in every position, and goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier is next in line. Impressive performances with Lille have cemented his reputation, demonstrating consistency, excellent positioning, and authority beyond his age. As Hugo Lloris's career winds down, Chevalier is expected to emerge as a leading contender for France's number-one jersey.

6. Jonas Urbig (Bayern Munich, Germany, 21)

Bayern Munich secured the signing of Jonas Urbig from FC Köln in January 2025. Urbig, who has made 60 appearances in the German second division and earned eight caps with Germany's U21 national team, is seen as one of the most promising young goalkeepers in German football. His move to Bayern is expected to further his development under the guidance of seasoned professionals.​Bavarian Football Works+1Everybody Soccer+1

7. Joan García (Espanyol, Spain, 24)

Joan García has emerged as a standout performer in La Liga, leading the league with 112 saves this season. His agility and shot-stopping prowess have caught the attention of top clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. With Espanyol facing potential relegation, García's availability could spark a bidding war this summer.​

8. Zion Suzuki (Parma, Japan, 22)

Zion Suzuki has quickly established himself as Parma's first-choice goalkeeper in Serie A since joining in July 2024. The Japanese international, who previously played for Urawa Red Diamonds and Sint-Truiden, has impressed with his shot-stopping abilities and composure under pressure. Suzuki's performances have not gone unnoticed, with Manchester United reportedly considering a £40 million move to secure his services. His rise reflects a growing trend of Japanese players making significant impacts in European football.

9. Guillaume Restes (Toulouse, France, 20)

Guillaume Restes has rapidly ascended to become Toulouse's first-choice goalkeeper in Ligue 1. Since making his professional debut in August 2023, the 20-year-old has earned 11 caps with France's U21 national team and played a pivotal role in securing a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Restes' performances have drawn comparisons to former Toulouse prodigy Alban Lafont, highlighting his potential to become a mainstay in both club and national teams.​

10. Antonín Kinský (Tottenham Hotspur, Czech Republic, 22)

Antonín Kinský joined Tottenham Hotspur from Slavia Prague in January 2025 for a reported fee of £12.5 million. The 22-year-old Czech goalkeeper made an immediate impact, keeping clean sheets in his first two matches, including a 1–0 victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup semi-final. Kinský's impressive performances have quickly earned him the trust of his teammates and manager Ange Postecoglou, positioning him as a strong contender for the starting role at Spurs.​

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Written by Klemen Kos , football journalist with 20 years of experience.

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