A goalkeeper who acts as an 11th outfield player, sweeping behind the defensive line.
Definition: A goalkeeper who acts as an 11th outfield player, sweeping behind the defensive line.
Sweeper-keepers operate well outside their box, intercepting through balls, distributing with passes instead of long kicks, and joining the build-up. Manuel Neuer is the modern template — Bayern Munich's high line only works because Neuer covers behind. Pioneered conceptually by Lev Yashin in the 60s. Modern: Neuer, Alisson, Ederson, ter Stegen.