But there is an enormous amount of confirmation bias around. Blaming him for the Leeds goal for example where he did well to stop a big deflection. And the recent goal where he cleared a terrible back pass directly to Spence who failed to control it leading to a goal. Neither were remotely his fault but both got him criticised on here.
The problem, as with most football criticism, is that it's all about opinions. 'Confirmation Bias' is simply how most arguments are formed, so in that sense it's a meaningless phrase. In Vicario's case I agree, he makes some brilliant saves, that being the reason, presumably, why he was chosen to be the Spurs goalkeeper. However, in the opinion of many, including me, he is not secure enough in his overall play. He does not control his area, he flaps when under pressure, and he does not prioritize catching the ball. Perhaps we should give Kinsky a run.
Case in point... please log in to view this image please log in to view this image The eyeball test is seriously overrated
Prevented goals = saves compared to the xGoT (or Expected Goals on Target) Basically an xG which has an end product
I don't think anyone should rely on either but the only thing that really matters about a goalkeeper is whether he stops more goals than an alternative one. How he does it is irrelevant surely.
None of the above 'stats' can account for the two significant failings that for me are unacceptable: the uncertainty and general look of panic he continues to display and the verbals directed (only) at the younger players. He's not some rookie keeper, he's a highly paid and very experienced international. Exuding calm and being a positive role model are basic qualities that should come naturally to him. They don't.
I don't think that exuding calm really comes with the modern goalkeeping role, unfortunately. High lines, passing out short, punching instead of catching, etc? Lots of dodgy moments. The other aspect is the lack of protection that he in particular gets from refs. It was supposed to be the new normal and then it suddenly wasn't any more.
He definitely gives it out to the senior players Case in point, during the Europa League final there was a moment where he literally dragged Bissouma into position when setting up for a corner because Bissouma was ignoring him clearly yelling instructions, and when the cross came in Bissouma got a head to it to snuff out the danger. He was also manhandling Son when he kept getting nudged into him
Maybe not looking like a rabbit caught in headlights might be an improvement. The best goalkeepers still manage to 'look' unruffled even if they are under pressure. The nature of the game doesn't change that. And why do you think he got targeted more than other keepers? I'd lay money it is exactly because he overreacted/panicked in those scenarios.
Manuel Neuer has played over 500 games for Bayern plus has 124 Germany caps, yet he regularly looks like somebody who realises he doesn't have his door keys in his pocket when three yards down the driveway when under pressure or facing well-aimed crosses He's long been that little bit too indecisive about whether he should run to smother the ball, too
