#8 Gianluigi Donnarumma - AC Milan
Agents. Goddamn agents.
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s meteoric rise to the very top echelons of goalkeeping-dom took a sour turn this year, much of it due to matters off the pitch. Goaded by Mino Raiola, Donnarumma was tempted into considering a move to the Rossoneri’s hated rivals, Juventus.
What ought to have been a legendary career that could have mirrored that of Paolo Maldini’s became another run-of-the-mill career of a talented youngster. With fans showing their displeasure, it naturally showed in the 18-year-old’s performances - lacking the eery assurance he displayed last year.
Raiola further made things difficult for his client, as his comments towards the end of 2017 completed Donnarumma’s breakdown in relationship with the Milan ultras, with the tearful youngster having to be comforted by teammates after a banner was unfurled wanting him to be sold.
Despite the turmoil off and on the pitch, Donnarumma has continued to pull off some astounding reflex saves this calendar year, and his rise up this list next year is assured if he makes a move away from the San Siro.