Brad Friedel Names the Premier League’s Top Goalkeeper – and It’s Not Alisson or Donnarumma!

Brad Friedel has extensive experience in Premier League goalkeeping. Throughout his two-decade career in England's top division, the former USA international established a reputation for being dependable.

Friedel still holds the record for the most consecutive Premier League appearances, achieving an incredible streak of 310 straight games during his spells with Blackburn Rovers, Aston Villa, and Tottenham Hotspur.

So when it comes to identifying the top goalkeepers in the modern game, you can't go wrong by consulting Friedel.

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‘Over the last few years, it’s Alisson. His one versus one goalkeeping has been outstanding’ Friedel commends Liverpool’s No. 1.

For several years, Friedel sees a clear leader in England’s top tier. “I would have said over the last few years Alisson,” Friedel shares with FourFourTwo on behalf of BetVictor.

“His one-versus-one goalkeeping has been excellent. That skill has enabled his coaches, whether Jurgen Klopp in the past or Arne Slot now, to employ a high line and aggressive defending. He is not just a remarkable shot stopper; he’s also skilled with his feet.”

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Since joining Liverpool in 2018, Alisson’s shot-stopping and calmness in possession have revamped Liverpool’s defense and motivated the Reds to win significant trophies, including two Premier League titles.

His sweeping has allowed Klopp’s squad to compress the pitch, choking opponents high up the field, and Slot has benefited from the Brazilian's experience since taking over in the summer of 2024.

However, injuries and illness this season have disrupted Alisson's performance. Friedel believes another goalkeeper has now taken the title of the Premier League’s finest.

“This season, with Alisson facing injuries and illness, I would likely place David Raya in that category at the moment,” Friedel states. “He’s providing attributes similar to Alisson’s, along with a passing range that has become his team’s primary mode of attack. He’s developed into an impressive ‘keeper, and watching his growth has been truly enjoyable.”

Raya’s ascent has been remarkable. After making a mark at Blackburn and advancing to the Premier League with Brentford, he transitioned to Arsenal, where his passing capabilities attracted Arteta.

This season, Arsenal has been exceptionally solid defensively, with Raya playing a crucial role in their quest for the Premier League title.

Simultaneously, Friedel also mentioned another Premier League favorite of his – Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez. “One goalkeeper I admire, and have admired for a long time, is Martinez,” he remarks.

“But for me, at this moment, Raya is the best.”