Arsenal FC v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 Round of 16 Second Leg
Raya is on the bench for Arsenal today (Picture: Getty)
David Raya starts on the bench for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City today with Kepa Arrizabalaga given the nod.
The former Chelsea goalkeeper has started all five of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup matches this season, also featuring in the FA Cup with Arteta rotating his shot stoppers in cup competitions.
Raya has been enjoying a sublime season for the Gunners, playing a central role in his side’s march towards the Premier League title.
Performances over the last week against Everton and Bayer Leverkusen served to underline just how important he has been this season with the former Brentford star on course to win the Golden Gloves award.
But Arteta has rewarded Kepa for his fine form in this competition with a starting role today at Wembley.
Earlier this week, former Arsenal star Paul Merson backed the decision to stick with Kepa.
‘The big decision that Arsenal need to make is whether they go with Kepa Arrizabalaga or David Raya in goal,’ Merson told Sportskeeda.
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Kepa gets the nod today (Picture: Getty)
‘Kepa has been first-choice in the Carabao Cup, and I think they should stick with him. It’s only fair because he played well and got you to this stage.
‘But I must admit, Raya is world-class. The saves he made against Everton and Leverkusen were absolutely phenomenal.
‘However, if I were the manager, I would still stick to my principles and choose Kepa as the keeper for the final. He’s not let the team down in this competition and deserves to start.’
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