How much influence a goalkeeper-captain can have on a team is a subject that will always be a source of intense discussions. These discussions, however, are irrelevant when it comes to discussing the cyborg that is Manuel Neuer.
Neuer is the ultimate choice and will start as numero uno at Russia 2018 despite just recovering from a long-term injury. His ability to make reality-defying saves, agility, reflexes, and brilliance have long made him one of the best goalkeepers in the world, however, he has even more important roles to play for the German team.
Coach Joachim Low has adopted the Pep Guardiola style in looking to have his goalkeeper act as an auxiliary sweeper/quarterback. In Neuer, both managers have found the perfect goalie. Due to his presence in goal, the German team is able to play higher up the pitch and quickly press the opponents to get the ball back closer to the opposition’s goal.
The centre-backs (usually Mats Hummels and Jerome Boateng) will be eager to drive the ball forward as Neuer’s acceleration and agility mean he can quickly close down attackers who have beaten the defence line (did this to great effect at the 2014 World Cup).
His passing range also means that the wingers: Marco Reus, Julian Draxler and Julian Brandt will be able to stay wide and stretch the opposition.