David Raya is the best goalkeeper in the world. At least according to his Arsenal team-mates.
The Gunners keeper made four superb saves in his latest excellent display in the 1-0 Champions League victory over Sporting, with Kai Havertz hitting a late winner.
It is rare for a team who are top of the Premier League and in a European quarter-final to have a goalkeeper in the mix for player of the year – but Raya must be in contention.
The Spain international has kept 22 clean sheets in 41 appearances in all competitions this season – and his latest could not have come at a more important time for his side.
Arsenal travelled to Sporting after back-to-back losses for the first time this season – and the pressure and noise about Mikel Arteta’s side being “nearly men” was loud before the game in Lisbon.
However, notably, Raya did not feature in either of those losses: Arteta opted to stick with cup goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga for the defeats by Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final and Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-final.
Arteta’s decision to pick Kepa for the final with City was questioned after the loss as the back-up goalkeeper’s error gifted Pep Guardiola’s side the opening goal.
It also meant Arsenal’s wait for a major trophy since 2020 continues.
But Raya’s performance against Sporting showed why the 30-year-old is the Gunners’ clear number one.
“Unbelievable” is how match-winner Kai Havertz described Raya to Amazon Prime.
“I think [he is] still underestimated in the world of football but for me, the last two seasons, the best keeper in the world.
“He’s outstanding, he’s saved us so many times and we’re very glad to have him.”BBC
