The UEFA Champions League has long been a stage for the world’s most talented footballers, and while goalkeepers typically peak later in their careers, some have defied expectations with remarkably early debuts. These youngest goalkeepers showcased incredible composure, talent, and courage while facing Europe’s elite clubs—often before their 19th birthdays. Whether it was a record-setting start or a memorable clean sheet, each of these teenage shot-stoppers carved their names into Champions League history. This list highlights the top 10 youngest goalkeepers ever to feature in the competition, ranked by age at debut and match impact.
10. Pepe Reina
- Age: 19 years 61 days
- Match: Barcelona 1-0 Fenerbahçe, 31/10/2001
- Club: Barcelona
Pepe Reina was just 19 years and 61 days old when he made his UEFA Champions League debut for Barcelona. The Spanish goalkeeper started in a tight win over Fenerbahçe in 2001. His mature performance at such a young age marked the beginning of a long and successful career across Europe. Reina’s early appearance puts him among the youngest goalkeepers in Champions League history.
9. David de Gea
- Age: 18 years 327 days
- Match: Porto 2-0 Atlético Madrid, 30/09/2009
- Club: Atlético Madrid
David de Gea entered the Champions League spotlight at just under 19 years old. Playing for Atlético Madrid against Porto, he showed early signs of the confident and agile shot-stopper he would become. Although his side lost, de Gea’s poise under pressure stood out. His debut places him among the top 10 youngest goalkeepers ever to feature in the UEFA Champions League.
8. Ruslan Neshcheret
- Age: 18 years 287 days
- Match: Barcelona 2-1 Dynamo Kyiv, 04/11/2020
- Club: Dynamo Kyiv
Ruslan Neshcheret had a baptism of fire, facing Barcelona at Camp Nou in 2020. Despite the defeat, the 18-year-old impressed with several key saves and a composed display. His Champions League debut at 18 years and 287 days came during a crucial group stage clash. As one of the youngest goalkeepers to ever appear, Neshcheret earned praise for his bravery and agility.
7. Maxim Kabanov
- Age: 18 years 262 days
- Match: Spartak Moskva 2-2 Feyenoord, 18/09/2001
- Club: Spartak Moscow
Maxim Kabanov debuted for Spartak Moscow in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Feyenoord. At just 18 years and 262 days, he became one of Russia’s youngest Champions League goalkeepers. Kabanov’s quick reflexes and fearless mentality were on display during his European outing. His early career highlight came against an experienced Dutch side.
Also READ: Top 10 Goalkeepers With the Most Champions League Appearances
6. Adrian Šemper
- Age: 18 years 246 days
- Match: Lyon 3-0 Dinamo Zagreb, 14/09/2016
- Club: Dinamo Zagreb
Adrian Šemper was thrown into the deep end when he started against Lyon in 2016. Though Dinamo Zagreb lost 3-0, Šemper made several saves that showcased his shot-stopping potential. Making a Champions League debut at 18 years and 246 days placed him among Europe’s elite youngest goalkeepers. His courage on the night earned him respect despite the scoreline.
5. Igor Akinfeev
- Age: 18 years 159 days
- Match: Porto 0-0 CSKA Moscow, 14/09/2004
- Club: CSKA Moscow
Igor Akinfeev, a legend in Russian football, began his Champions League journey as an 18-year-old with a clean sheet. His debut against Porto ended in a goalless draw, highlighting his maturity beyond his years. Akinfeev would go on to become a Champions League veteran, but his early start puts him firmly on the list of youngest goalkeepers in tournament history.
4. Nikolay Mihaylov
- Age: 18 years 125 days
- Match: Levski Sofia 0-3 Werder Bremen, 31/10/2006
- Club: Levski Sofia
Nikolay Mihaylov made his Champions League debut for Levski Sofia at just over 18 years of age. Facing a strong Werder Bremen side, Mihaylov gained invaluable experience despite a 3-0 loss. His early introduction to the elite level helped shape his professional career. As one of the youngest goalkeepers ever in the Champions League, Mihaylov’s name remains in the record books.
3. Iker Casillas
- Age: 18 years 118 days
- Match: Olympiacos 3-3 Real Madrid, 15/09/1999
- Club: Real Madrid
Real Madrid’s iconic goalkeeper Iker Casillas was only 18 years and 118 days old when he debuted in the Champions League. The match against Olympiacos was a high-scoring affair, and Casillas showcased his early potential with key saves. He would later become a UCL legend with multiple titles. His place among the youngest goalkeepers underlines the extraordinary nature of his career.
2. Mile Svilar
- Age: 18 years 52 days
- Match: Benfica 0-1 Manchester United, 18/10/2017
- Club: Benfica
Mile Svilar made headlines when he became the youngest goalkeeper ever to start a Champions League match at the time, at just 18 years and 52 days. His debut came against Manchester United, and though he was unlucky to concede an own goal, his performance was solid. Svilar’s record-breaking appearance earned him international attention and marked him as one of the most promising young goalkeepers.
1. Maarten Vandevoordt
- Age: 17 years 287 days
- Match: Napoli 4-0 Genk, 10/12/2019
- Club: Genk
Topping the list is Maarten Vandevoordt, who made his Champions League debut at just 17 years and 287 days. Starting against Napoli, he became the youngest goalkeeper in UEFA Champions League history. While the match ended in a 4-0 loss, Vandevoordt’s record-breaking appearance marked a historic moment. His courage and determination at such a young age showed immense promise for the future.
FAQs
Who is the youngest goalkeeper in UEFA Champions League history?
Maarten Vandevoordt holds the record at 17 years and 287 days.
Did Iker Casillas debut young in the Champions League?
Yes, Casillas debuted at 18 years and 118 days and went on to become a UCL legend.
Which club had the youngest debut goalkeeper?
Genk, with Maarten Vandevoordt starting at 17 years old.
How many youngest goalkeepers debuted in the Champions League before age 19?
All top 10 entries featured goalkeepers who made their debut under the age of 19.
Has any goalkeeper broken Vandevoordt’s record since?
As of 2025, Maarten Vandevoordt’s record still stands.