World’s best keeper? Raya helps Arsenal get back on track
World’s best keeper? Raya helps Arsenal get back on track
Arsenal’s David Raya has played a pivotal role in recent victories, securing a crucial 1-0 Champions League win against Sporting. His performance was highlighted by four key interventions, with Kai Havertz’s late goal ultimately sealing the match. Despite being top of the Premier League and in a European quarter-final, Raya’s inclusion in player-of-the-year discussions is notable, as such recognition is uncommon for goalkeepers in these circumstances.
Raya’s 22 clean sheets in 41 appearances across all competitions this season place him at the forefront of Europe’s top five leagues. This achievement comes at a vital moment for Arsenal, who had suffered back-to-back losses earlier in the campaign. The pressure on Arteta’s team was palpable before their match in Lisbon, yet Raya remained a consistent force, as he had not been involved in those setbacks. Arteta had chosen Kepa Arrizabalaga for the defeats against Manchester City and Southampton, a decision that drew scrutiny after a defensive error allowed City to take an early lead.
“Unbelievable,” Havertz remarked to Amazon Prime. “I think he’s still underestimated in the world of football, but for me, the last two seasons, he’s the best keeper in the world. He’s outstanding, he’s saved us so many times, and we’re very glad to have him.”
Raya’s leadership and tactical contributions extend beyond shot-stopping. His ability to handle the ball effectively and support Arsenal’s attacking play has been a significant asset. In Tuesday’s game, he made a vital early save against Maxi Araujo, tipping a powerful strike onto the crossbar, followed by three crucial interventions in the second half to preserve the clean sheet before Havertz’s decisive goal.
Raya’s clean sheet in this match marked his seventh in the Champions League this season, a record unmatched by any other goalkeeper or team in the competition. “That’s something we’ve worked on a lot,” he said in a blockquote. “Clean sheets make it easier to win games. Tonight, scoring in the last minute and keeping the clean sheet decided those type of games.”
Arteta acknowledged Raya’s adaptability, noting the evolving role of goalkeepers. “The keeper in the last few years has changed and evolved rapidly,” he explained. “The amount of things we ask him to do is a lot, but many positions have similar demands now. It’s the courage and will to take on challenges that can push a player to another level.”
Raya’s Premier League tally of 15 clean sheets in 31 matches also leads the division. While he shared the Golden Glove award with Matz Sels in 2024-25, Arsenal hopes future individual accolades will align with team success. The Gunners’ manager praised Raya’s excellence, calling him “extraordinary, magnificent, incredible” and expressing pride in his contribution.
