Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has revealed how Mikel Arteta pushed for his signing, reflected on the club’s Premier League triumph and admitted that he would like to play in Spain someday.
In an extensive interview with Spanish publication Marca, the 31-year-old discussed his career, Arsenal’s ambitions and his achievements with the Spanish national team.
One of the biggest revelations concerned his arrival from Brentford in 2023, when Arsenal initially signed him on loan despite already having Aaron Ramsdale as their first-choice goalkeeper.
Raya admitted that the move involved considerable uncertainty because a permanent transfer was not guaranteed.
“The key was the manager and the goalkeeping coach, Inaki,” he explained. “Both Mikel and Inaki put a lot of pressure on the club to get me to sign.”
The Spaniard also praised Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta for identifying weaknesses in players’ performances and helping them improve.
Raya credited Arteta’s emphasis on resilience with helping Arsenal overcome repeated title disappointments to become Premier League champions last season.
He revealed that the players held several meetings during a difficult period to confront their shortcomings and restore their confidence.
“The maturity of the group and that meeting of all the players was very important to get us back on track,” he said.
However, Arsenal’s Champions League final defeat against Paris Saint-Germain remains a painful memory for the goalkeeper.
Raya acknowledged the disappointment of losing on penalties but expressed pride in the team’s journey to the final.
Having also won the 2026 World Cup with Spain, he believes the past year represents the finest period of his professional career.
“I think I’ve had a perfect year,” he declared, pointing to his contributions across Arsenal’s domestic and European campaigns.
Raya is consequently among the contenders for the Yashin Trophy, although he believes there is still room for further improvement.
Looking ahead, the goalkeeper made Arsenal’s ambitions clear.
“We want to establish ourselves as favourites,” he said, expressing his determination to win every available trophy.
He particularly hopes Arsenal can improve on last season by finally lifting the Champions League.
Raya also addressed his long-term future, admitting that playing in La Liga remains an ambition despite his happiness in north London.
“For now, I’m very happy here, but I would like to try the Spanish league,” he explained.
The goalkeeper also backed Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal for the Ballon d’Or, praising his creativity and ability to entertain supporters.
For Arsenal, Raya’s comments underline both his appreciation of Arteta’s influence and his determination to build on the club’s recent success.