In the wake of two consecutive clean sheets for Arsenal, goalkeeper David Raya has discussed his position within the team.
The comments come as speculation mounts over who will be the starting goalkeeper in the upcoming North London derby against Tottenham.
Raya’s performances
David Raya‘s short stint in goal has resulted in two clean sheets for Arsenal, sparking conversations among fans and pundits alike.
“I’ve just been selected for the last two games, that is just the choice of the gaffer — that is his choice, not my choice, and when Aaron comes in he will need to also fight for the team and to win games,” Raya told reporters following Arsenal‘s 4-0 victory over PSV Eindhoven.
Goalkeeper competition at Arsenal
Raya is up against Aaron Ramsdale, who was voted by his peers as the Premier League’s best keeper.
This has intensified the competition for the number one shirt at Arsenal.
“I think it is the first time that two top goalkeepers are in the same team, so that is just part of football now,” Raya added.
“The gaffer wants two top players for each position, and that is what we have to work with. I have played the last two games and now we see what happens on Sunday.”
Raya’s decision to join Arsenal
Moving from Brentford to join Arsenal, where he knew competition would be fierce, Raya says he has embraced the challenge.
“It is something every player has to do — to back yourself to get in the team, and that is why I moved to Arsenal and try to do my best for the team when I’m selected,” he said.
Ramsdale’s current situation
Aaron Ramsdale, who was the first-choice keeper for Arsenal after usurping Bernd Leno shortly after his arrival, now finds his position less than secure.
Ramsdale has not commented on his current status within the team.
Uncertainty before the North London derby
Both Raya and Aaron Ramsdale are awaiting the decision on who will start in the highly anticipated North London derby.
Raya elaborated on the unpredictability of the selection, saying, “You never know when you’re going to play and that is the hardest thing to do.
“Making your debut for a club like Arsenal, and obviously having Aaron as a team-mate, makes it a bit harder for you, but it came quick. But you never know when it is going to be and you have to be ready.”
Conclusion
With two top-performing goalkeepers at Arsenal, the upcoming North London derby will undoubtedly place the spotlight on the decision made by manager Mikel Arteta.
As both Raya and Ramsdale vie for the starting role, their competition exemplifies the depth of talent within the Arsenal squad.