Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised goalkeeper David Raya for taking his game to a new level this season. Arteta’s words come as Arsenal fights for trophies in four competitions. The team leads the Premier League and has reached the EFL Cup final.
David Raya joined Arsenal on loan in 2023 and made the move permanent last year. He took over from Aaron Ramsdale as the main goalkeeper. Mikel Arteta sees Raya as a key player in their push for success. Arsenal has not won a trophy since the 2020 FA Cup. This season, they aim to end that wait.
Raya’s Rise at Arsenal
David Raya started his career in England with Blackburn Rovers. He then shone at Brentford, helping them reach the Premier League. His skills with the ball and shot-stopping caught Arsenal’s eye. When he arrived, some fans doubted if he was better than Ramsdale. But Raya proved them wrong.
Last season, Raya shared the Golden Glove award with Nottingham Forest’s Matz Sels. They both had 13 clean sheets. This helped Arsenal finish second in the league for the third straight year. Raya’s calm style fits Arteta’s plan of building from the back. He is good at passing and handling pressure.
This season, Raya has played 24 Premier League games. He has 12 clean sheets and has let in only 17 goals. That is the best record for keepers with more than 10 starts. His saves and decisions have saved Arsenal in tough matches.
David Raya has kept at least eight more clean sheets than any other goalkeeper in the Premier League since he joined Arsenal (42 in 95 games).
◎ 16 – 2023/24
◎ 13 – 2024/25
◉ 13 – 2025/26 🆕
On course for a third consecutive Golden Glove. 🧤 pic.twitter.com/YTu0eKEyf3
— Squawka (@Squawka) February 7, 2026
Arteta’s Strong Words
Mikel Arteta spoke about Raya before the game against Sunderland. He said the team’s success comes from great play by individuals like Raya. “When we are where we are, it’s because individuals are doing so well, and certainly David has been immense for us since he joined,” Arteta said.
He added: “This season again, I think he’s gone to a different level, very stable, really, really consistent, and he’s a key player for us.”
Arteta’s praise shows how much he trusts Raya. The manager knows goalkeepers need to be steady. Raya’s form has made the defense strong. Arsenal has the best defensive record in the league, giving up just 17 goals in 24 games.
There was also talk about a warm-up issue before the Chelsea game. Chelsea’s coach said Arsenal staff went into their half. Arteta said it was common and apologized if needed. But the focus stayed on the win and Raya’s play.
Arsenal’s Current Season Overview
Arsenal is top of the Premier League after 24 games. They have 16 wins, 5 draws, and 3 losses, with 53 points. Manchester City is second with 47 points. Aston Villa is third with 46. Arsenal scores well with 46 goals and defends best with 17 against.
They beat Chelsea 4-2 on aggregate to reach the EFL Cup final. In the Champions League, they topped their group. The FA Cup is still on. This is Arsenal’s 100th straight season in the top flight. They want to win the league after three second places.
Recent wins include a 4-0 over Leeds and the Chelsea semi-final. But they lost 3-2 to Manchester United. The team has depth, but injuries like Mikel Merino‘s test them.
Looking Ahead for Raya and Arsenal
Arsenal faces Sunderland at home on February 7. A win could extend their lead. Raya will aim for another clean sheet. With City playing Liverpool, points are key.
Raya’s new level gives hope. If he stays consistent, Arsenal can win trophies. Arteta’s trust in him boosts the team. Fans see Raya as a hero in their title chase. The next months will show if they end the drought.
ENJOYED THIS STORY?
Add Six Sports as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reporting
Add as a preferred source on Google
Mentioned in this Article
Recommended for you