David Raya came close to joining Bayern Munich before signing for Arsenal in the summer of 2023, initially on loan from Brentford. The Spanish goalkeeper had impressed at Brentford and was ready to take the next step in his career.
Bayern were looking for a goalkeeper after Manuel Neuer suffered an injury, and Raya emerged as a target. They were the first club to approach him, and the Spaniard was open to joining one of Europe’s leading teams.
However, the move failed to materialise, allowing Arsenal to step in and secure his signature despite already having Aaron Ramsdale, who was regarded as one of England’s best goalkeepers at the time.
Arteta stood by his decision
Arsenal’s decision to sign Raya attracted criticism, with questions raised about bringing in another goalkeeper when Ramsdale was already at the club. Mikel Arteta, however, remained convinced that the Spaniard was the right choice and stood by his decision despite the scrutiny.
Raya eventually established himself as Arsenal’s first choice, with his performances helping justify the manager’s faith in him. What initially appeared to be a controversial decision has since become an important part of Arteta’s plans.
The goalkeeper could have taken a different path had Bayern completed their pursuit in 2023. Instead, he chose to join Arsenal and continue his career in the Premier League.
Raya v Crystal Palace
(Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)
Raya reflects on Bayern interest
Raya was asked about the proposed move to Bayern and why it did not happen. Speaking via Football London, he made it clear that his decision was to sign for Arsenal, while stressing that this was not intended as a slight against the German club.
“Well, I’m not going to speak about what could have happened or whatnot.
“At the end of the day, I chose to sign for Arsenal with no disrespect to Bayern.
“It was just the negotiations that we had, but at the end of the day, I signed for Arsenal that year.”
Raya’s explanation points to negotiations as the key factor in the transfer failing to materialise. Ultimately, Arsenal secured his services, and Arteta’s confidence in the goalkeeper has been rewarded as Raya established himself as a key figure at the club.
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