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Undoubtedly the best goalkeeper in the world, Manuel Neuer has been widely tipped by many to win the Ballon d'Or. In 2014, Neuer did not only win the World Cup but also the Bundesliga and the DFB Pokal. He reached the Champions League semi-finals and was named Germany's Footballer of the Year for the second time. He also placed second in the Uefa Best Player award, behind only current Ballon d'Or holder Cristiano Ronaldo.
Neuer did really well in Brazil. He had memorable matches against Algeria and France in the knockouts. he was inspirational in saving his team at crucial moments and proved that he is the best in his position. He also helped transform the way goalkeepers play and is now the archetypal 'Sweeper Keeper'.
But Neuer simply isn't tested enough."After some games this season I haven't needed to have a shower," Manuel Neuer confessed in 2013.
“Yes, I guess sometimes it is boring being in goal.”
This is due to the fact that he has the best backlines ahead of him both for Bayern and German national team. He is protected by football's two finest teams. Both sides dominate play to such an extent that Neuer is frequently seen wandering close to the halfway line in an effort to become more involved in the action.
Also he does make high-profile mistakes. He misjudged Fabio Conetrao’s cross for Karim Benzema's first-leg goal in the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid and allowed a Sergio Ramos header and Cristiano Ronaldo shot to pass right through him in the return leg.
He has also conceded seven goals playing for Germany since the World Cup as Joachim Low's side struggle to cure their Brazil hangover.
Goalkeepers are often overlooked, but the reason Ronaldo and Messi have hogged the limelight more than Neuer in 2014 is because they are more deserving. Manuel Neuer has certainly been consistent and has been the best goalkeeper and hence deserves a top three finish, but still he has a long way to travel to win the Ballon d’Or .
