Serie: Topps Match Attax 2024/2025
Type: Basic
Number: 227
Péter Gulácsi, born on 6 May 1990, is a distinguished Hungarian footballer who serves as a goalkeeper for Bundesliga club RB Leipzig and the Hungary national team. Over the years, Gulácsi has established himself as a formidable presence on the field, with a career marked by perseverance, skill, and remarkable achievements.
Gulácsi’s football journey began at Liverpool, where he joined from MTK Budapest on a one-year loan in 2007. Despite not making a senior appearance for Liverpool, he spent time gaining valuable experience through loan spells at Hereford United, Tranmere Rovers, and Hull City. During these stints, he honed his skills and proved his potential as a top-tier goalkeeper.
In 2013, Gulácsi made a pivotal move to Red Bull Salzburg, where he truly began to make his mark. At Salzburg, he was instrumental in securing two domestic doubles, winning both the Austrian Bundesliga and the Austrian Cup. His outstanding performances caught the attention of RB Leipzig, and in 2015, he transferred to the club, becoming a key figure in their ascent to the Bundesliga. Gulácsi played a crucial role in helping RB Leipzig achieve UEFA Champions League contention and secure their first-ever DFB-Pokal title, solidifying his reputation as one of the best goalkeepers in the Bundesliga.
Internationally, Gulácsi has been a stalwart for Hungary, representing his country in multiple major tournaments. He made his debut for Hungary on 22 May 2014 in a friendly match against Denmark, and his exceptional performances quickly earned him the role of the team’s starting goalkeeper following the retirement of Gábor Király in 2016. Gulácsi has since been a consistent presence in Hungary’s national team, featuring prominently in Euro 2016, Euro 2020, and Euro 2024. His contributions were especially significant during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, where he played in every match.
Gulácsi’s time at RB Leipzig has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. In 2017, he was recognized as the best goalkeeper of the autumn part of the Bundesliga season by the German sport magazine Kicker. The following year, he continued to excel, finishing the season with 47 appearances. His consistent performances earned him a contract extension with RB Leipzig in 2017, keeping him at the club until 2022, and later until 2025. In 2022, Gulácsi faced a significant setback when he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee during a Champions League match against Celtic. This injury sidelined him for the rest of the season, but his determination and resilience saw him return to the field in September 2023.
Gulácsi’s comeback was marked by a standout performance in the DFB-Pokal, where he played a full match against Wehen Wiesbaden, helping RB Leipzig secure a 3-2 victory. He continued his impressive form in the Bundesliga, playing his first league match post-injury in a 2-0 win over Union Berlin in February 2024. By December 2024, Gulácsi was once again rated as the best goalkeeper of the first half of the Bundesliga season by Kicker.
In addition to his club successes, Gulácsi’s international career has been equally illustrious. He played a pivotal role in Hungary’s campaigns at Euro 2016, Euro 2020, and Euro 2024. Notably, in a UEFA Nations League fixture against Germany on 23 September 2022, he made his 50th appearance for Hungary and kept a clean sheet, securing a 1-0 victory. Despite his injury setback, Gulácsi returned to the national team in March 2024, delivering a clean sheet in a 1-0 win against Turkey.
Gulácsi’s journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication and resilience. From his early days at Liverpool to his current status as a top goalkeeper in the Bundesliga, he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence. His contributions to RB Leipzig and the Hungary national team have made him a revered figure in the world of football, and his story continues to inspire fans and aspiring goalkeepers alike.
