Mike Maignan
France's number one and Milan's captain — explosive reflexes, a commanding presence off his line and the passing range to start attacks himself.
Playing Style Summary
Maignan is a complete modern goalkeeper: a powerful, agile shot-stopper who is just as comfortable acting as a sweeper behind a high line or launching a counter-attack with one pass. He won Ligue 1 with Lille in 2020-21 and Serie A in his first season at AC Milan, where he has been captain since October 2024 and is under contract until 2031. For France he was named in the Euro 2024 Team of the Tournament and started the 2026 World Cup as Didier Deschamps' first-choice goalkeeper. His game combines athletic reflexes with strong positioning and a genuine record against penalties.
Defining Traits
Explosive Reflexes
His power and spring let him cover the corners from a set position, and he recovers quickly to make second saves when the first one is parried.
Sweeper-Keeper Range
Starts high and reads balls in behind early, coming off his line to clear or claim before the striker can arrive — vital behind an aggressive defensive line.
Launching Distribution
A strong kicker and thrower who can switch play or find a forward running in behind instantly, turning a save or a claim into a fast attack.
Leader of the Box
Organises his defence loudly and confidently, and brings a captain's authority to set pieces and high-pressure moments.
Strengths
- Elite reflexes and shot-stopping across the whole goal
- Sweeper-keeper range behind a high line
- Long and short distribution that can start counter-attacks
- Proven penalty-saving ability
- Leadership and organisation of the back line
Limitations
- Aggressive starting positions can occasionally be punished by early, lofted shots
- Has had documented spells out with muscle injuries, including the calf problem that kept him out of the 2022 World Cup
More France players
See the full squad →
Robin Risser
“From the third tier to the World Cup in two years — a tall, composed young goalkeeper who became Ligue 1's best in his first top-flight season.”
Brice Samba
“An athletic shot-stopper and penalty specialist — the hero of Nottingham Forest's promotion and Ligue 1's best goalkeeper with Lens.”
Malo Gusto
“A quick, attack-minded right-back who can overlap like a winger or step inside into midfield — Chelsea's versatile modern full-back.”
Lucas Digne
“A left-back with a left foot to rival any creator — elite crossing, dangerous free-kicks and the experience of a Europa League winner.”
Dayot Upamecano
“A powerful, front-foot centre-back who defends high and carries the ball forward — now the leader of Bayern's back line.”
Jules Koundé
“A centre-back who became one of the world's best right-backs — fast, intelligent, superb in one-v-ones and decisive in the biggest games.”
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