Who is the Best Goalkeeper in FIFA 17? A Deep Dive for FIFA Fans
When it comes to FIFA 17, the goalkeeper is arguably the most crucial player on your squad. A solid last line of defense can be the difference between clinching a win and suffering a heartbreaking defeat. So, who was the absolute best shot-stopper in FIFA 17? Let's break down the top contenders and the attributes that made them stand out.
The Top Contenders for FIFA 17's Best Goalkeeper
While FIFA ratings are always a hot topic, a few names consistently rose to the top in FIFA 17, showcasing exceptional performance on the virtual pitch. These goalkeepers weren't just good; they were game-changers.
1. Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)
It's no surprise that Manuel Neuer frequently tops these lists. In FIFA 17, he continued to be a dominant force. His incredible all-around stats made him a beast in net.
- Reflexes: Neuer's reflexes were legendary, allowing him to pull off seemingly impossible saves. He could react to shots that other goalkeepers would have no chance of stopping.
- Diving: With a sky-high diving stat, Neuer could stretch to reach shots near the posts or at full stretch to tip dangerous efforts over the bar.
- Handling: His ability to confidently catch or parry shots meant fewer rebounds for opposing strikers to pounce on.
- Kicking: While not always the most used stat for keepers in-game, Neuer's excellent kicking could initiate quick counter-attacks, a valuable asset.
- Positioning: His excellent awareness of his goal and ability to anticipate play meant he was rarely caught out of position.
2. David de Gea (Manchester United)
David de Gea was another name consistently mentioned as one of the best in FIFA 17. His performances for Manchester United were mirrored in the game, making him a fan favorite.
- Diving: De Gea's diving was exceptional, characterized by spectacular, acrobatic saves that often left players in awe.
- Reflexes: Similar to Neuer, de Gea's lightning-fast reflexes were a nightmare for attackers. He could react to close-range efforts and deflections with incredible speed.
- One-on-Ones: De Gea often excelled in one-on-one situations, making himself big and frustrating attackers trying to slot the ball past him.
- Overall Agility: His agility allowed him to move quickly across his goal line, making him a formidable barrier.
3. Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus)
The veteran Italian legend, Gianluigi Buffon, continued to be a top-tier goalkeeper in FIFA 17. His experience and consistent high ratings made him a reliable choice for many.
- Reflexes: Buffon's vast experience translated into superb reflexes. He was rarely caught flat-footed.
- Handling: He possessed excellent hands, securing shots cleanly and minimizing the risk of giving away soft goals.
- Positioning: Buffon's positioning was impeccable, a testament to his years of playing at the highest level. He knew exactly where to be to cut out angles and make saves.
- Composure: His calm demeanor under pressure was evident, and this translated into consistent performances, even in crucial moments.
Other Notable Mentions
While Neuer, de Gea, and Buffon often stole the spotlight, several other goalkeepers were fantastic options in FIFA 17:
- Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea): Known for his imposing physique and excellent reach.
- Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur): A quick and agile keeper with impressive reflexes.
- Petr Čech (Arsenal): A consistent performer with strong all-around stats.
Why These Goalkeepers Dominated in FIFA 17
The FIFA 17 engine had its nuances, and certain goalkeeper attributes were more impactful than others. The goalkeepers mentioned above excelled because their stats aligned perfectly with what made a goalkeeper truly effective in that particular iteration of the game.
- Reflexes and Diving: These two stats were paramount in FIFA 17. Goalkeepers with high ratings in these areas could often defy logic and pull off stunning saves, even from difficult angles or power shots.
- Height and Reach: While not always directly quantifiable in a single stat, a goalkeeper's height and reach played a significant role. Taller keepers could cover more of the goal, especially on high shots.
- Handling and Positioning: These stats contributed to a goalkeeper's overall reliability. Good handling meant fewer fumbles, and excellent positioning ensured they were in the right place to make the save.
Ultimately, the "best" goalkeeper in FIFA 17 often came down to personal preference and playstyle. However, if you were looking for consistent, top-tier performances, Manuel Neuer, David de Gea, and Gianluigi Buffon were almost always the safest and most rewarding bets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How did a goalkeeper's height affect their performance in FIFA 17?
A goalkeeper's height in FIFA 17 was crucial for their reach. Taller goalkeepers could cover more of the goal, especially on shots aimed towards the top corners. This attribute often made them more effective at saving high shots and dealing with crosses.
Why were reflexes considered the most important stat for goalkeepers in FIFA 17?
Reflexes allowed goalkeepers to react quickly to shots, especially those taken from close range or that had deflections. In FIFA 17, high reflex stats enabled goalkeepers to make spectacular saves and often recover from slightly poor positioning, making them invaluable.
Can I still use these goalkeepers in FIFA 17 online matches?
Yes, if you are still playing FIFA 17 online, these goalkeepers are available for use. Their effectiveness will depend on your team's overall rating and your own skills, but their inherent stats provide a strong foundation.
How did the game engine of FIFA 17 influence goalkeeper effectiveness?
The FIFA 17 engine favored goalkeepers with high reflexes and diving abilities. These attributes often resulted in impressive, almost "unsaveable" saves that could win you games. Other factors like positioning and handling also played a role in overall consistency.
