Following Cameroonian Goalkeeper Andre Onana’s move to Man United, we look back at some of the other African goalkeepers who have played in the Premier League.
As much as African players have left an indelible mark on the Premier League, it is curious that there have been very few goalkeepers from the continent to play in England.
With the news that Manchester United have completed the GBP47m signing of Cameroon shot stopper Andre Onana we thought it could be interesting to take a look back at some of the other African keepers who have graced the best league in eth world.
Bruce Grobbelaar (Zimbabwe) – Liverpool’s unconventional icon
Bruce Grobbelaar, hailed from Zimbabwe, is one of the most iconic goalkeepers in Premier League history. His time at Liverpool from 1981 to 1994 saw him rise to legendary status. Grobbelaar’s acrobatic saves and eccentric antics in goal endeared him to fans and instilled fear in opponents. He played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s dominance during the 1980s, winning six league titles and the European Cup, and his infamous “spaghetti legs” during penalty shootouts became part of football folklore.
André Onana will be to Manchester United, what the legendary African goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar was to Liverpool. 🧤 #MUFC pic.twitter.com/JZyFtcZrpd
— Uncle Wilson. (@iam_wilsons) July 19, 2023
Richard Kingson (Ghana) – An unsung hero
Richard Kingson, affectionately known as “Olele,” showcased his goalkeeping prowess during his time in the Premier League. Playing for clubs such as Birmingham City and Wigan Athletic, the Ghanaian shot-stopper was revered for his agility, quick reflexes, and shot-stopping abilities. One of his standout performances came during a match against Arsenal in 2010, where his heroic saves earned Wigan a crucial point against the league giants.
Happy 42nd Birthday 🎂🎂 to Legendary Ghana goalkeeper Richard Kingson. pic.twitter.com/PDDDN5E5rg
— AfricaFootballClassics (@AfricaClassic) June 13, 2020
Edouard Mendy (Senegal) – Chelsea’s brick wall
Senegalese keeper Edouard Mendy made a significant impact when he joined Chelsea in 2020. His arrival at Stamford Bridge brought much-needed stability to Chelsea’s defence. Mendy’s impressive shot-stopping ability and composed presence played a vital role in the club’s successes, including a UEFA Champions League triumph. He quickly became a fan favourite and showcased his mettle on the grandest stage, solidifying his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the league. On 28 June 2023 Mendy signed for Saudi Professional League club Al Ahli bringing his stay in the EPL to an end.
🧤 Edouard Mendy saves! Best here? 🤩@ChelseaFC | #UCL | #UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/fPK9CFFFgO
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) May 24, 2021
Karl Ikeme (Nigeria) – Wolves’ inspirational shot-stopper
Karl Ikeme, the Nigerian goalkeeper who spent his entire professional career at Wolverhampton Wanderers, exemplified determination and skill during his time at the club. After being diagnosed with acute leukemia in 2017, Ikeme displayed immense courage and resilience in his battle against the disease. His footballing ability was equally impressive, playing a pivotal role in Wolves’ promotion to the Premier League during the 2017-2018 season. Though his career was cut short by illness, his impact on and off the pitch remains an inspiration to many.
Karl Ikeme, 36 ys of ages a Nigerian international has been invited by his club Wolves in the first team training after beating cancer.
— Raoul Lionel 🇷🇼 #TeamPK #GOE (@ntirushwajunior) April 16, 2022
Good to see him back pic.twitter.com/wDxmKdWpki
Andre Arendse (South Africa) – A South African phenom
Andre Arendse, a trailblazer from South Africa, made his mark in English football during his time at Oxford United in the 1998-1999 season. Though his tenure in the Premier League with Fulham, was brief, Arendse’s performances were commendable and showcased his exceptional shot-stopping abilities. He later returned to South Africa, where he continued to excel for club and country, earning a reputation as one of the finest goalkeepers in the country’s history.
Champion spotting at the cricket. Andre Arendse goalkeeper of the Bafana Bafana team that won the 1996 African Cup of Nations glory for South Africa 🏆🇿🇦. Now that’s a champion. #SA20 #SA20Final #BafanaBafana #ChampionSouthAfrica #ChampionSouthAfrican #AndreArendse pic.twitter.com/ttcEfxx1y5
— Ashraf Garda (@AshrafGarda) February 13, 2023