Arsenal Players

General Information

Norberto Murara Neto (born 19 July 1989) is a Brazilian professional goalkeeper best known for his commanding presence, agility, and consistency between the posts. Over the course of his career, Neto has played for clubs across Brazil, Italy, and Spain, developing a reputation as a dependable and technically skilled shot-stopper. Although strongly linked with Arsenal on several occasions, he never made the move to North London, but his name remains familiar to fans who followed the club’s search for experienced goalkeepers during the 2010s.

Early Life and Youth Career
Neto was born in Araxá, Minas Gerais, Brazil, where his football journey began in local youth teams. Initially playing as a midfielder during his childhood, he eventually transitioned into goalkeeping, a role in which his natural reflexes, height, and determination stood out. He joined the youth academy of Atlético Paranaense, where he refined his skills and demonstrated a high ceiling of potential. His early promise was marked by sharp reflex saves, confident handling, and excellent distribution for a goalkeeper.

Atlético Paranaense (2009–2011)
Neto made his professional debut with Atlético Paranaense in 2009. Quickly establishing himself as the team’s first-choice goalkeeper, he made more than 30 appearances during his spell in Brazil. His strong domestic performances, including a series of impressive displays in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A, attracted the attention of European scouts. By 2011, his growing reputation as one of Brazil’s most exciting young goalkeepers earned him a transfer to Italy.

Fiorentina (2011–2015)
In January 2011, Neto signed for Fiorentina in Serie A. His first few seasons involved a period of adaptation, as he initially served as a backup before cementing himself as the club’s number one. By the 2013–14 season, Neto was Fiorentina’s first-choice goalkeeper, noted for his shot-stopping ability, athleticism, and resilience in high-pressure matches.

During his time in Florence, Neto made over 70 league appearances and played a key role in Fiorentina’s runs in domestic and European competitions. His commanding presence and ability to organize the defence earned him recognition as one of the more reliable goalkeepers in Italy’s top flight.

Juventus (2015–2017)
In 2015, Neto made a high-profile move to Juventus, signing as a backup to Gianluigi Buffon. Though primarily the second-choice goalkeeper, he made valuable contributions in cup competitions, particularly in the Coppa Italia. Neto featured prominently in Juventus’s successful Coppa Italia campaigns in 2015–16 and 2016–17, helping the club lift silverware while learning under the guidance of one of the game’s greatest goalkeepers.

Even with limited appearances in the league, Neto’s professionalism, training ethic, and reliability when called upon left a positive impression in Turin.

Valencia (2017–2019)
Seeking more regular football, Neto transferred to Valencia in 2017. At the Mestalla, he was restored as a first-choice goalkeeper and quickly became a fan favourite for his consistent displays in La Liga. His agility, reflexes, and ability to perform in big matches were crucial to Valencia’s competitiveness in both domestic and European football.

Neto’s standout performances helped Valencia secure Champions League qualification, reinforcing his reputation as a top-level goalkeeper in Europe.

Barcelona (2019–2022)
In 2019, Neto signed with Barcelona, primarily serving as backup to Marc-André ter Stegen. While opportunities were limited at the Camp Nou, he nonetheless provided reliable cover and featured in cup competitions and occasional league matches. His experience and calmness were valued assets in the dressing room, even if his playing time was restricted.

Later Career
After his time at Barcelona, Neto continued his career in Europe, offering his services as an experienced and reliable goalkeeper. His name has been regularly linked with moves to the Premier League—including Arsenal—though these never materialised into a transfer.

International Career
Neto has been capped at various levels for Brazil, making appearances for the senior national team as well. Despite strong competition for the goalkeeper spot, he earned call-ups to squads and represented his country with pride when given the opportunity.

Playing Style
Neto is best described as an agile and athletic goalkeeper, combining sharp reflexes with a strong command of his penalty area. He is particularly adept at one-on-one situations, often closing down angles quickly and making crucial saves. His distribution—both with his hands and feet—has also been highlighted throughout his career, allowing him to contribute to modern possession-based systems.

Standing at 1.90m (6 ft 3 in), Neto uses his height effectively, commanding aerial situations and offering assurance from set pieces. While not always the flashiest, his consistency and reliability have been hallmarks of his game.

Legacy and Reputation
Though never a household name on the level of Buffon or Ter Stegen, Norberto Neto has carved out a highly respectable career at some of Europe’s biggest clubs. His journey from Brazil to Serie A, La Liga, and beyond showcases his adaptability, professionalism, and determination. To Arsenal supporters, his name will always be associated with “what might have been,” as he was frequently mentioned as a potential signing during times when the club sought experienced cover in goal.

Today, Neto remains respected as a dependable professional who contributed to multiple clubs’ successes, including Juventus’s domestic dominance and Valencia’s resurgence.