Frank Christian
Since taking over as Arsenal’s manager in December 2019, Mikel Arteta has made numerous daring choices.
While some of these choices have proven successful, others have not yielded the expected outcomes. A particularly noteworthy move was the loan signing of David Raya from Brentford, meant to challenge Aaron Ramsdale’s position as the primary goalkeeper at that time.
This surprised many, including analysts, as Ramsdale was widely regarded as a long-term solution for Arsenal’s goalkeeping needs, and his performances backed this view. His popularity among fans further complicated the decision.
However, it didn’t take long for Raya to secure his spot in the lineup, ultimately surpassing Ramsdale as the top choice in goal. Fast forward to today, and Raya is considered one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League.
Recently, former Liverpool defender and current football analyst Jamie Carragher praised Arteta’s bold decision during a discussion.
“I chose Alisson as the best goalkeeper in the Premier League this season, but I was very close to picking David Raya,” Carragher stated on The Overlap.
“Alisson’s incredible performance against PSG was unforgettable and might have influenced my choice. But Raya has also delivered five or six world-class saves this season, including a remarkable one against Aston Villa, which feels like ages ago.
“That move by Mikel Arteta was one of his most commendable, given that Aaron Ramsdale enjoyed significant fan support, but Arsenal likely wouldn’t achieve major success with him in goal.
“Though Arsenal hasn’t clinched major titles with Raya yet, it remains a sound decision.”
His remarkable one-handed save to deny Ollie Watkins’ close-range header was honored as the Premier League Save of the Month for August 2024.
Raya’s Chances for the Premier League 2024/25 Golden Gloves
This season, Raya has showcased remarkable consistency, achieving 13 clean sheets in the Premier League, tying him with Newcastle United’s Matz Sels.
With only one match left in the 2024/25 Premier League season, both Sels and Raya are vying for the coveted Golden Gloves award.
Having won the Golden Gloves last season with 16 clean sheets, Raya is keen to defend his title.
Arsenal will take on Southampton in their final league outing, while Newcastle prepares to host Everton. Both goalkeepers will aim to secure another clean sheet to enhance their season’s records.
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