David Raya gave his gloves to a tearful Arsenal supporter on Saturday night, after helping his team to a win over Newcastle United.
Arsenal had another great night in the Premier League on Saturday, thrashing Newcastle United 4-1 to keep the pressure on at the table’s summit.
David Raya has had his part to play in Arsenal’s recent resurgence, only conceding three times in six Premier League games since the winter break, with the Gunners winning all six.
More than just his shot-stopping, Arsenal fans have started to take notice of everything else Raya gives Mikel Arteta’s team in goal.
The goalkeeper is confident and effective in possession, and he’s in a league of his own when it comes to stopping crosses.
Though Raya didn’t keep a clean sheet on Saturday night, there was really nothing he could have done about Joe Willock’s looping header.
Raya remains level with Jordan Pickford of Everton and Ederson of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League clean sheet charts this season, with all three sitting on eight.
After the game, Raya handed his gloves to a fan, who was visibly emotional at the gift.
David Raya making this Arsenal fan's wishes come true 🧤🙏 pic.twitter.com/ZVqU4NK1MH
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 24, 2024
One Blackburn Rovers fan shared his own story in the replies to the video of Raya’s gift, saying: “Raya [is] such a nice genuine bloke, gave my son his glove at Blackpool away when at Rovers.”
Raya’s primary objective is to win football matches with Arsenal, but he’ll be pleased to make connections with the fans along the way.
It seems he’s slowly starting to win the doubters over as the season progresses.