David Raya
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal began their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Riccardo Calafiori’s first-half header secured the decisive goal, giving the Gunners a much-needed boost as they aim to challenge for the title once again.
Gabriel Magalhaes marked his return from a lengthy injury layoff by partnering William Saliba at the heart of Arsenal’s defence, helping to contain United’s energetic attack.
Behind them, David Raya produced a standout performance, making crucial saves to deny the Red Devils any chance of salvaging a point on the opening weekend.
Raya made more stops than any other goalkeeper (7) across the Premier League’s first round of fixtures. His reflex save to deny Matheus Cunha was among the best of the weekend.
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The breakthrough came early when Declan Rice’s corner in the 13th minute caused chaos in the United box, with goalkeeper Altay Bayindir unable to react quickly enough as Calafiori headed home from close range.
The goal set the tone for an end-to-end contest. United debutant Bryan Mbeumo had the first big chance but was denied by Raya, who remained in top form throughout.
David Raya made more saves than any other goalkeeper (7) during the Premier League’s opening weekend 😮👏 pic.twitter.com/UYgmP71HUy
— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) August 17, 2025
Cunha proved a constant threat, but Raya’s sharp reflexes frustrated the hosts on multiple occasions.
In the second half, United increased the pressure. Bruno Fernandes tested Raya with a curling free-kick, but the Spaniard responded confidently.
His finest moment came when he leapt to push away a powerful header from Mbeumo, underlining why Mikel Arteta has made him Arsenal’s undisputed number one.
Although Arsenal created little in attack, they nearly doubled their lead when Bukayo Saka’s effort was blocked by Matthijs de Ligt.
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United introduced Benjamin Sesko late on in search of an equaliser, but Raya and Arsenal’s resilient back line stood firm to secure a clean sheet and all three points.
Despite the defeat, United will take encouragement from their performance, having registered over 20 shots and showing promise under Ruben Amorim. They will aim to bounce back when they face Fulham at Old Trafford next weekend.
For Arsenal, the victory provided momentum and reassurance that even below their best, they can grind out results, a key trait in any title challenge.
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