It looks like a while in the past there was a goalkeeping controversy at Arsenal between David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale. After the English goalkeeper conceded a number of errors, Mikel Arteta put his religion within the Spanish shot-stopper. It was not the smoothest of begins for Raya between the sticks on the Emirates. Nonetheless, that religion has paid off higher than Arteta might have hoped for. David Raya continues to be one in every of Arsenal’s most vital gamers whatever the opponent.
Most just lately, Raya preserved one other clear sheet, already his fifth of the season in all competitions by eight video games. The shutout towards PSG comes on the again of his clear sheet within the Champions League opener towards Atalanta. In that contest, he made a spectacular double save on a penalty to maintain Arsenal stage. He didn’t have that standout save towards PSG, however there have been a number of moments the place he was sturdy.
Raya made a snap save on a shot from distance off the boot of Lee Kang-in. The swerving shot perplexed Raya, who did sufficient to get a powerful hand on the ball to make it difficult for Randal Kolo Muani to settle the ball. He additionally had a reactionary save on a set piece to maintain the sport at a two-goal margin. In fact, it was snug for David Raya on Tuesday. PSG solely had two pictures on track, and Raya was stage to each.
Nonetheless, his performances thus far within the Champions League present large enchancment in comparison with final season. Shot-stopping has been persistently sturdy for Raya, however he added the component of distribution to his recreation. He created an early alternative for Gabriel Martinelli towards PSG. By comparability, his passing gave objectives away within the Premier League and Champions League final season.
David Raya might be dependable presence as Arsenal hunts trophies
Goalkeeping could possibly be the one space that Arsenal must solidify if it’ll take that one step additional in 2024/25. William Saliba and Gabriel have a case to be the most effective center-back duo in Europe. Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard can transition Arsenal with ease, and Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard have grown to permit Kai Havertz to thrive up prime. Seeing David Raya ship such vital performances will give the crew an additional increase of confidence.
As said, his potential to play the ball out of the again provides a brand new layer to Arsenal’s assault. It could not have led on to a objective on Tuesday, however it retains opposing golf equipment sincere. The chance of a press is nullified by the truth that Raya can unfold the ball out. Whether or not it’s the lengthy ball or shortly enjoying out of the again, Arsenal has a number of methods to beat the opponent.
Then, Raya backs up his play with saves. That aforementioned saves towards Atalanta preserved a doubtlessly invaluable level for the Gunners. Within the Premier League, Raya’s miraculous save towards Aston Villa secured three factors in what was then a tie recreation at Villa Park. If he retains making moments like that, Arsenal could possibly be sure for fulfillment.
PHOTOS: IMAGO
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