Manuel Neuer vs George Best
Germany against Northern Ireland. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Manuel Neuer
Germany · 2013–20 · GK
- Almanac rating
- 96
- Rank in Germany
- #3 of 33
- Caps
- 128 · 0 goals
- Clubs
- Schalke 04, FC Bayern Munich
- Honours
- 2× national Player of the Year (2011–2014) · 2× Hall of Fame (2019–2019)
Germany's back four pushed so high against Algeria on 30 June 2014 that he spent the night guarding the space behind them, racing beyond his box to head and hook the ball clear. A fortnight later he kept Argentina out for 120 minutes of the final, winning the World Cup and the Golden Glove, and his Bayern years brought the 2013 and 2020 Champions League inside two trebles plus five IFFHS awards as the world's best goalkeeper. Career record: 128 caps and 0 goals for Germany; club career at FC Schalke 04 II, Schalke 04, FC Bayern Munich; honours include 2× national Player of the Year (2011–2014), 2× Hall of Fame (2019–2019).
George Best
Northern Ireland · CAM
- Almanac rating
- 95
- Rank in Northern Ireland
- #1 of 33
- Caps
- 37 · 9 goals
- Clubs
- Manchester United, Fulham, San Jose Earthquakes
- Honours
- Ballon d'Or · Hall of Fame 2002
The mercurial superstar defined an era with his dazzling dribbling, breathtaking goals, and captivating flair, a true footballing artist. Career record: 37 caps and 9 goals for Northern Ireland; club career at Manchester United, Fulham, San Jose Earthquakes; honours include Ballon d'Or, Hall of Fame 2002.
The verdict
The almanac puts Manuel Neuer ahead by 1 rating point, 96 against 95.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.