3) Thibaut Courtois
The greatest testament to Courtois’s ability is the fact that at the such a young age, he managed to become the first choice goal keeper ahead of the most renowned and experienced goal keeper Petr Cech!
The Lanky Belgian standing at 6’6 feet is seen as an imposing figure between the posts and he doesn’t let his height get in his way because he just pulls of some incredible saves at times. In the season of 2010/11 Courtois, was named Genk’s Player of the Year when they won the Belgian title before his move to the Bridge. He was then loaned out to Atletico Madrid, and played a crucial part in a team that won the La Liga title in 2013/14.
Courtois became the youngest goalkeeper to represent Belgium in the year of 2011 and mirroring his club progress he is now the recognised first choice keeper for his country.
Aside from his incredible athleticism and shot-stopping ability, Courtois’ mentality, control and self-assured manner instils confidence in his defensive colleagues who have had a bad season, giving the young Belgian an aura of calm beyond his years.
His potential hasn’t gone unnoticed at the highest level of the game, after Chelsea’s clash with Paris St-Germain in the UEFA Champions League this year, PSG manager Laurent Blanc stated: “What amazes me is that Courtois, despite his height, is still very quick …He’s one of the top goalkeepers in the world. Chelsea know they have one of the greatest keepers out there.”