Thibaut Courtois vs. David De Gea: They are two of the best goalkeepers in the world who just happen to play for two of the biggest clubs in the world
We’ll get a chance to see these two talented shot stoppers go head to head on Saturday when Chelsea hosts Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Matchday 33 of the Barclays Premier League.
Neither Courtois nor De Gea leads the league in clean sheets this season—they have nine and ten, respectively. There are also other goalkeepers who have conceded fewer goals this campaign.
There’s no denying, though, that Courtois and De Gea have been vital figures for their clubs this term, routinely coming up with spectacular performances to allow their sides to steal points.
But while it’s easy to imagine Chelsea being top of the table without Courtois, it can be argued that Manchester United wouldn’t be in third place if not for the efforts of De Gea.
The Spaniard has come up huge for the Red Devils this year, especially in games against top six teams—De Gea has won five of eight such matches, with one draw. Courtious has won two of seven games against top six sides, with five draws.
While Courtois has had the benefit of the Premier League’s best defence lining up in front of him, De Gea has to deal with a back line that has been in a state of flux all season as manager Louis Van Gaal has tried to figure out his best starting 11 and fiddled with formations, as well as deal with a rash of defensive injuries.
That’s not taking anything away from Courtois. The six-feet-six-inch Belgian is a dominant goalkeeper, who effortlessly collects crosses played into the box and exudes confidence inside his area.
While not as dominant as Courtois, De Gea is just as athletic, and uses his arms, legs and feet to pull off dramatic saves, and protect his goal at any cost.
