One of the all-time great goalkeepers, Gianluigi Buffon, just gave a special shoutout to a former Chelsea star.
Buffon has a claim for best to ever stand between the sticks, full stop. A World Cup winner and ten-time Serie A champion, his resume speaks for itself.
So when he singles out a player, it’s usually a good indication that they are of an elite level to catch the Italian’s attention.
That’s certainly true for another goalkeeper who was outstanding at Stamford Bridge and beyond.
Thibaut Courtois celebrating after Chelsea beat Manchester United in FA Cup final
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Gianluigi Buffon praises ‘special’ Thibaut Courtois
Thibaut Courtois has been in and around ‘best in the world’ conversations consistently since he first arrived at Chelsea in 2011.
Courtois chose Chelsea over Spurs. Rather than coming in to challenge Petr Cech, he was sent on loan to Atletico Madrid for three seasons, where he was integral to Diego Simeone’s La Liga-winning side.
When asked about some of the best goalkeepers he has seen, Buffon told Sports Illustrated that Courtois is right up there.
He explains: “It’s enjoyable to watch Courtois because, in my opinion, he’s another goalkeeper who shows you something special in the goal.”
Both players have staked their claim for GOAT keeper, and it’s no surprise to see Buffon acknowledge the Belgian’s greatness.
Who is Chelsea’s best goalkeeper?
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Imagining a Thibaut Courtois Chelsea return
After two Premier League titles in four seasons, Courtois left Chelsea in 2018 for personal reasons. He joined Real Madrid, where he would win every trophy imaginable and cement his place among the greats.
Can you imagine if he were to return to Chelsea now? He is still one of, if not the best, keeper in the world.
You can choose one Chelsea legend to play in Enzo Maresca’s team today. Who are you picking? 🤔
Imagine this Chelsea team with Didier Drogba! 🔥
Enzo Maresca of Chelsea celebrates
Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images
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Robert Sanchez has become underrated at Chelsea, putting in performances this season that are completely changing the narrative around him.
That being said, no Chelsea fan would turn down the chance to have Courtois back in the side. He can win games on his own with sometimes incomprehensible shot-stopping skills.
Ian Wright thinks Chelsea need a goalkeeper to contend for a title despite Sanchez turning a corner. Who better to bring in than Courtois?
It’s not a realistic idea by any means, but you’d have to think it would raise Chelsea’s ceiling significantly. Maybe a phone call in January just to be sure?
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