0 – Keylor Navas
One of the club’s most recent goalkeepers, Keylor Navas stood out for his spectacular ability and crucial saves, such as those in the twelfth European Cup victory. His best season was in 2015-16, following Iker Casillas’ departure. Despite an injury the next year, he remained a key player until his transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in September 2019.
9 – Bañón
Bañón’s name is remembered by older fans, particularly because he succeeded Zamora, one of the greatest goalkeepers in history. He was known for his speed and agility, winning the affection of fans quickly. A lung problem, however, forced him to retire at just 27, at the peak of his career. He was the goalkeeper who conceded the fewest goals in the 45-46 season.
8 – Betancort
Nicknamed “Siete Manos” (Seven Hands) after a derby against Atlético de Madrid, Betancort’s impressive saves earned him fame. His memorable feat against Inter Milan in the 1966 European Cup, where he played through a muscle strain and kept a clean sheet, is still celebrated by fans.
7 – Juanito Alonso
In the 1950s, Madrid won four league titles and five European Cups, thanks in part to Alonso’s saves. Known for his composure and bravery, he won a Zamora Trophy in the 54-55 season. He was a key player in Di Stefano’s legendary Real Madrid team.
6 – Agustín Rodríguez
A product of Madrid’s youth ranks, Agustín made history in the 1980s. His size and composure in high-level play earned him a place among Madrid’s best. He was the starting goalkeeper when the team won the Copa del Rey in 1982.
5 – García Remón
Known as “the Cat from Odessa,” García Remón was a reliable and unpretentious goalkeeper. Despite a 0-5 defeat against Barcelona that left him on the bench for four years, he regained his starting position, only to be sidelined by an injury in the 1982 European Cup final.
4 – Paco Buyo
From his first season at Madrid, Buyo established himself as one of the best goalkeepers. Known for his confidence and punching ability, he won numerous trophies, including six leagues, two Copa del Rey, and four Spanish Super Cups. Despite not winning a European Cup, he played over 500 league games, a remarkable achievement for a Spanish footballer.
3 – Miguel Ángel
Joining Madrid at 18, Miguel Ángel had to compete with García Remón and spent years on loan. Known for his bravery and agility, he won 13 titles in 17 years, playing nearly 350 official matches.
2 – Ricardo Zamora
Zamora was already a renowned goalkeeper when he joined Madrid, where he continued to build his legacy. Known for his positioning and anticipation, he won two league titles and two Spanish Cups with Madrid. He also won an Olympic silver medal, and the award for the best goalkeeper of the season is named after him.
1 – Iker Casillas
Casillas, undoubtedly one of the best goalkeepers Real Madrid and Spain have ever had, debuted at 17. He became a legend after key performances, including winning the ninth European Cup. Over a decade, he won numerous leagues, Super Cups, Champions Leagues, and a Club World Cup. Casillas also won two European Championships and a World Cup with Spain. Despite a heart attack in 2019, he remains active in football.
What do you think of this list of Madrid’s best goalkeepers? Is there anyone missing? Please share your thoughts in the comments!
