Ederson, Pickford: EPL Goalkeepers to make assist this season
Everton’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford (left) and Manchester City’s goalkeeper, Ederson (right). Photo Credit- Eurosport
The Premier League has been a celebrated stage for wonders and remarkable moments. From long range goals, now to long range assists and the 2024/25 season has added depth to this dynamics. Goalkeepers have gradually begun showcasing their playmaking abilities, with five different shot-stoppers providing assists—a record last matched in the 2010/11 season.
This trend in goalkeepers making goal scoring opportunities is evolving the role of goalkeepers in modern football, where they contribute not only defensively but also in initiating attacks. Hence this piece is set to explore five goalkeepers who have achieved such feat this season, detailing how each assist unfolded and the impact it has on their respective team.
Ederson – Manchester City
When speaking of goalkeepers to have their names on the record of goal contributions, Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson stands tall. Ederson is renowned for his exceptional ball-playing skills and has provided three assists this season. His assists typically involve launching accurate long balls over the opposition’s defense, allowing Manchester City’s forwards like Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush to capitalize on one-on-one situations with the goalkeeper.
Ederson’s ability to turn defense into attack with his precise long passes adds an extra advantage to Manchester City’s offensive strategy, often catching opponents off guard and leading to goal-scoring opportunities.
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Mark Flekken – Brentford
Mark Flekken’s assist came during a match where his quick thinking and accurate distribution set up a goal for Brentford. Although specific details of the match and the assisted player are not specified, Flekken’s role in initiating counter-attacks has been a major instrument in Brentford’s offensive plays. Flekken’s vision and ability to deliver precise passes have been instrumental in Brentford’s strategy to exploit spaces behind the opposition’s defense, leading to crucial goals.
Jordan Pickford – Everton
Another goalkeeper to be regarded in this piece is Jordan Pickford. Aside saves and instigating counter attacks, he remains dominant also when it comes to setting up goal scoring opportunities for teammates. Pickford’s assist occurred in a match where his long clearance found an Everton forward, leading to a goal. Moreover, Pickford’s distribution skills have been a valuable asset for Everton. Pickford’s ability to accurately distribute the ball over long distances enables Everton to transition swiftly from defense to attack, creating scoring opportunities from deep positions.
Bernd Leno – Fulham
Bernd Leno is a new name this season to be board the train of goalkeepers doing the role of playmaking. Leno’s assist came with his quick release and accurate passing, which led to a Fulham goal. Leno’s composure and distribution have been key in Fulham’s build-up play. Leno’s proficiency with the ball at his feet allows Fulham to maintain possession and build attacks from the back, contributing to the team’s overall offensive effectiveness.
Bart Verbruggen – Brighton & Hove Albion
In Brighton’s impressive 3-0 victory over Chelsea on February 14, 2025, Bart Verbruggen showcased his playmaking ability. Verbruggen’s assist came from a well-placed long ball that found Kaoru Mitoma, who controlled it expertly before scoring a sublime goal. This assist highlighted Verbruggen’s vision and precision in distribution. Verbruggen’s ability to initiate attacks from his goal area adds a strategic advantage to Brighton’s play, enabling quick transitions and catching opponents off guard.
Conclusion
The increasing number of goalkeepers contributing assists this season reflects a broader tactical evolution in football. Managers are now encouraging goalkeepers to participate actively in offensive plays, utilizing their passing skills to exploit opposition weaknesses. This shift not only diversifies attacking options but also emphasizes the multifaceted role of modern goalkeepers in the Premier League.
