Petr Cech omits himself as he names his top three goalkeepers of all time

During a discussion on Sky Sports, where Cech was challenged to pick his top three goalkeepers of all time, he didn't hesitate to name the Italian icon, who recently hung up his gloves after an illustrious career spanning nearly three decades, as his number one choice.

Cech's selection reflects not just personal admiration but also a recognition of achievement and impact in the world of football. "A tough question, but definitely I put Gigi Buffon in there. 

"Definitely put Neuer will be in there. It's always difficult to leave so many great ones out, but Peter Schmeichel will be my choice in there as well," Cech stated, as reported by the Mirror, acknowledging the difficulty of narrowing down such a vast field of talent. 

His top three—Buffon, Neuer, and Schmeichel—aren't just legends of the game but have also been pivotal in redefining the role of a goalkeeper.

Cech further clarified his choices by emphasizing the significant international successes of Buffon and Neuer. Buffon's leadership in Italy's 2006 World Cup win and Neuer's key role in Germany's 2014 victory were highlighted as critical factors. 

Cech's appreciation for these goalkeepers extends beyond their skills to their contributions to their national teams' successes.

The narrative also revisits the careers of Neuer and Schmeichel, noting Neuer's revolution of the sweeper-keeper role and Schmeichel's dominance in the Premier League with Manchester United. These goalkeepers have not only showcased exceptional skill but also left a lasting legacy in football history.

Cech's journey and the pivotal moments that define his career, including the 2012 Champions League victory with Chelsea, further enrich the discussion. 

His recount of a penalty shootout with Bayern Munich's Mario Gomez offers a glimpse into the psychological battles that goalkeepers face, showcasing Cech's ability to read and anticipate the actions of the players he faced.