“There was an anxiety in the stadium when he first came into the Arsenal team. You see now, there’s a belief in him and there’s a unity now,”-Martin Keown hails David Raya ahead of Man City test.

Martin Keown praises David Raya’s transformation since joining Arsenal, highlighting how he has dispelled the initial apprehension surrounding his arrival last summer. Initially signed as competition for Aaron Ramsdale, Raya has since emerged as the team’s primary goalkeeper, displacing the established English international.

Despite facing early struggles, conceding six goals in his first eight Premier League appearances, Raya persevered, and Arsenal continued to show confidence in him. His pivotal moment came during the Champions League Round of 16 tie against FC Porto, where he played a decisive role in securing Arsenal’s advancement by saving a crucial penalty.

Keown observes a shift in the atmosphere at the stadium, noting a newfound belief and unity among the fans and the team, reflecting Raya’s growing influence. Mikel Arteta acknowledges Raya’s resilience and determination, praising his ability to overcome challenges and earn his place as Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper.

Raya’s performance statistics from last season further underscore his capabilities, leading all goalkeepers in saves and save percentage. Despite conceding fewer clean sheets than the previous season, Raya remains a top contender for the Premier League Golden Glove award, boasting impressive defensive statistics and pivotal performances against formidable opponents like Manchester City.

As Arsenal prepares to face Manchester City post-international break, Raya’s contributions are poised to play a crucial role in their pursuit of victory against one of the league’s toughest opponents.