Arsenal and Spain goalkeeper David Raya has named former Chelsea star Thibaut Courtois among the four greatest goalkeepers in football history, according to a report by Football London on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. The Belgian features in Raya’s personal selection alongside Manuel Neuer, Gianluigi Buffon and Iker Casillas, reflecting the high regard in which he is held after years of outstanding performances.

Raya revealed his choices during an interview with Goal’s FanZone, where he was asked to name his “Mount Rushmore” of goalkeeping. The Arsenal goalkeeper selected four players whose careers have been marked by major achievements and sustained excellence. Courtois earned a place after establishing himself as one of Chelsea’s most important players.

Chelsea sold the Belgian to Real Madrid in 2018 for approximately £35 million. The transfer came after Courtois entered the final year of his contract and expressed a strong desire to return to Spain to be closer to his family. His agent subsequently explained that the family situation was the main reason behind the goalkeeper’s decision to leave Stamford Bridge.

Since moving to Madrid, Courtois has enjoyed considerable success and maintained a reputation as one of the leading goalkeepers in world football during his successful spell in Spain. His consistency has earned recognition from players and observers across the game, with Raya’s selection providing another indication of the respect he commands among his peers.

His departure left Chelsea with a difficult problem to solve. The club had to find a replacement capable of matching the standard he had established, but the search for a long-term successor proved challenging. Kepa Arrizabalaga arrived for a record transfer fee, yet struggled to deliver consistent performances and did not provide the stability Chelsea had enjoyed with Courtois.

Edouard Mendy later enjoyed an important spell, particularly during Chelsea’s successful 2020/21 Champions League campaign. His contribution helped the club secure European silverware, but the goalkeeping position continued to attract debate. Chelsea’s efforts to settle the role highlighted how difficult it had been to replace Courtois.

The club have since turned towards the future by investing in young Belgian goalkeeper Mike Penders. He has shown encouraging signs since entering first-team contention, and his early statistical figures have attracted attention. According to FotMob, Penders has recorded a save rate of 72.7 per cent and averages 2.21 sweeper actions per 90 minutes, placing him at the top of that statistical category.

Penders’ progress has also prompted discussion about his international prospects. With Courtois unavailable for Belgium selection, former national-team goalkeeper Silvio Proto has suggested that the youngster should be given the starting position ahead of current first choice Senne Lammens. The recommendation reflects expectations surrounding Penders, although it remains Proto’s opinion rather than a confirmed change in Belgium’s goalkeeping hierarchy.

Raya’s inclusion of Courtois among his all-time choices comes as Chelsea continue developing another Belgian goalkeeper. While Penders has promising indicators, matching Courtois’ achievements would be a substantial challenge. For now, the former Chelsea star’s standing among the game’s elite remains recognised by fellow goalkeepers.