Sweeper Keepers. Why are they so in demand?
Goalkeepers today are now being demanded to do more than just be a shot-keeper. They are required to play a part in a team’s build-up, have good ball control to release pressure and be a good distributor in finding their man or play a quick transition from defence to attack. This is the role of the ‘Sweeper Keeper. They have been a trend in how teams want to play especially within the past decade. Pep Guardiola controversial removed Joe Hart when he came to Manchester City and signed two goalkeepers, Claudio Bravo and Ederson. Liverpool broke the transfer fee for a goalkeeper by signing Alisson from AS Roma as he suits Klopp’s style of play in making quick transitions before Chelsea broke that record in signing Kepa Arrizabalaga from Athletic Bilbao. Petr Cech, a veteran in the game, was demanded to play out from the back by Unai Emery in Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat to Manchester City which he received criticism. So sweeper keepers are the in-thing but what is its origins and why is it ...