If anything shows the value of a goalkeeper, it’s the improvement of Manchester City’s defence, to title-winning standards, after bringing in Ederson in the summer. But the Brazilian, outstanding though he was, wasn’t even the best keeper in his city.

That’s because David de Gea plays in Manchester. For all Manchester United‘s improvement this season, they wouldn’t be in second place if not for the superlative displays of their No 1. It’s an indictment of the squad that arguably their only world-class player, is their goalkeeper, but United are just happy he’s there.

The Spaniard deservedly sits atop our rankings for the best goalkeepers across Europe’s top five leagues – here’s the full top ten.

1.  David de Gea, Manchester United

Every time you think de Gea can’t get better, he defies you. He’d cemented his status as the Premier League‘s best already, and he’s finally won his first Golden Glove.

De Gea reached new heights this season – never more so than this 14-save display against Arsenal.

2.  Ederson, Manchester City

Remember how Manchester City had goalkeeping issues last season? In his first season in England, Ederson solved that problem with aplomb.

Ederson was one of the biggest upgrades City made to win the title.

3. Gianluigi Buffon, Juventus

At this point, everything that can be said about Buffon has already been said. If this truly is his last season, winning Serie A‘s Player of the Year award is a fitting way to sign off.

Buffon’s powers haven’t waned – he’s retiring on a high.

4. Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Barcelona

It says it all that behind Lionel Messi, Ter Stegen is arguably Barcelona‘s best player at the moment. Germany won’t miss Manuel Neuer if Ter Stegen carries this form to the World Cup.

Ter Stegen could be Germany’s starter at the World Cup on current form.

5. Jan Oblak, Atlético Madrid

Oblak’s already burgeoning reputation grew even bigger this season, with some stunning displays in the Atlético Madrid goal.

Oblak is now one of the hottest goalkeeping properties around.

6. Alisson, Roma

The Roma man has been the find of the season among goalkeepers. It’s no surprise that he’s being linked with a move to some of Europe’s biggest names.

Alisson had a superlative season, with the night he frustrated Lionel Messi and co the peak.

7. Keylor Navas, Real Madrid

Navas hurts himself sometimes with high-profile gaffes, but there’s no telling how bad Madrid’s disappointing season could have been without his presence.

Navas is capable of high-profile gaffes – and solid, sometimes spectacular goalkeeping.

8. Samir Handanovic, Inter Milan

As always, Handanovic pulled off some stunning saves, and he’s a big part of why Inter Milan have one of the best defences in Italy this season.

Handanovic delivered another season of consistent brilliance in goal.

9. Nick Pope, Burnley

Nick Pope himself will probably be surprised to find himself among the top 10 keepers in Europe. That’s how good he’s been since being thrust into the starting keeper role at Burnley by Tom Heaton’s injury.

Pope was thrust into a starring role for Burnley.

10. Neto, Valencia

All that time serving as Buffon’s understudy has served the Brazilian in good stead. Valencia haven’t missed Diego Alves, which is high praise.

Neto replaced a legend in Diego Alves – and slotted right in.