A roundup of the top stories from the goalkeeping world between the 8th and 15th of December, 2024.
Header Image: Andrew Boyers/Action Images/Reuters via CNN
West Ham Academy goalkeeper tragically dies, aged 15
Starting with some devastating news this week as teenage West Ham goalkeeper, Oscar Fairs from Essex, sadly passed away after a cancer diagnosis. Oscar was found to have a rare brain tumour in August 2023. The 15-year-old underwent seven surgeries, a round of chemotherapy and radiotherapy before the family were told palliative care was the only suitable option.
Ex-club captain, and now, sporting director of the club, Mark Noble said, he had “such a bright future ahead of him, and it is just so unimaginably devastating that he has been taken from his family and friends at this age.” It’s tragic news for everyone associated with West Ham Football Club, Oscar’s family and friends, and the goalkeeping world, and we send our heartfelt condolences to them.
Emi Martinez pulls off best save in Premier League history?
Despite Aston Villa's defeat to a high-flying Nottingham Forest side on Saturday 14th, goalkeeper Emi Martinez's performance one again stood out. The World Cup winner denied Nicolas Dominguez’s headed attempt with an amazing reaction save. Jamie Redknapp analysed the save on Saturday Night Football, saying that ‘I can’t think of a better Premier League save in my life!’
The comment has been met with agreement and criticism on social media. Opinions ranged from arguments saying the ‘best Prem save ever is a stretch’, whilst others believed, ‘that’s one of the best saves of all time’. Do you think it’s the best save in Premier League history?
Bundesliga game stopped as goalkeeper hit by object thrown from fan
Union Berlin vs Bochum was halted for approximately half an hour after Bochum goalkeeper, Patrick Drewes, was hit by what looked like a lighter, as he prepared to take a goal kick in second-half stoppage time. Drewes received treatment as the referee suspended the game before resuming not long later.
Drewes was unable to carry on so striker, Philipp Hofmann, put on the gloves as all substitutions had been used by the away side. Bochum played the remaining minutes with nine men and a striker in goal, yet still held on for a point. It was a crazy end to the match, but our best wishes are sent to Drewes for a speedy recovery.
Brighton number one could be on the cards to replace Neuer
German giants Bayern Munich are reported to be considering a move for Bart Verbruggen, should the club's plan to extend Manuel Neuer's contract and deputise him with Alexander Nübel not work out. Reports from Sky German's Florian Plettenberg confirmed that the club are 'monitoring [Verbruggen'] closely'.
Bayern may have company in their race for the Dutchman, however, as French giants Paris Saint-Germain are also reportedly in the mix for another goalkeeper to challenge or even replace Gianluigi Donnarumma.
AC Milan look to reward Maignan with new contract
AC Milan are hoping to ward off interest in Mike Maignan by awarding him a new deal with the club until 2029. Maignan’s salary will reportedly increase from €3.2 million to €5 million, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
