David Raya
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David Raya has set his sights high for Arsenal this season as the Gunners prepare to kick off their UEFA Champions League campaign against Athletic Club in Bilbao on Tuesday.
The Spanish goalkeeper, who marked his 100th appearance for the club in Saturday’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, has become a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s side since joining from Brentford two years ago. Raya celebrated the milestone with his 42nd clean sheet for Arsenal but was quick to credit his teammates for the achievement.
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“I came here to go a step further in my career. I think it was the right decision,” Raya said ahead of the trip to San Mamés. “When I came here, Aaron [Ramsdale] was the goalkeeper and was playing. I just try to do my best on and off the pitch and give a reason to the boss to pick me. Having that record of 42 clean sheets is incredible, but the credit goes to the team and the staff.”
David Raya speaking on winning the Champions League with Arsenal this season. pic.twitter.com/MRbI162uPF
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Arteta faced criticism when he signed Raya to challenge Ramsdale for the No. 1 spot, but the decision has since proved decisive. Raya admitted the pressure of the move weighed heavily at first, but he quickly learned to block out external noise.
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“Obviously, when I came to Arsenal, there was a lot of talk outside. Aaron is an incredible keeper, and out of nowhere, things changed,” he explained. “There were a few games I could have done better, everyone has bad games. The noise was getting louder, but I had to focus on what I can control. I had to be deaf, basically, just believe in myself.”
The 30-year-old, who has claimed the Premier League Golden Glove in back-to-back seasons, is now focused on helping Arsenal compete for top honours at home and in Europe.
“We have belief, we want to win, we are Arsenal and we play to win, that’s not in doubt,” Raya declared. “It’s a long journey in the Champions League and the Premier League, but that’s what we play football for.”
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