Raya has stored probably the most clear sheets of any goalkeeper in Europe’s high 5 leagues, along with his 22 throughout all competitions 4 away from Inter’s Yann Sommer.
The previous Brentford goalkeeper has develop into an enormous presence at Arsenal and is a part of the staff’s management group.
He made an important save to disclaim Maxi Araujo early on in Tuesday’s match, tipping a thumping strike on to the crossbar earlier than making three saves late on to maintain the tie stage earlier than Havertz’s winner.
“It is one thing that I am there for. I am making an attempt to assist the staff as a lot as doable in any single motion, not simply defending however commanding and on the ball,” Raya advised Amazon Prime.
The clear sheet was Raya and Arsenal‘s seventh within the Champions League this season – probably the most of any goalkeeper and any aspect within the competitors.
“That is one thing we have labored on lots. It is so vital for us, these clear sheets make it simpler to win video games. It confirmed tonight, scoring within the final minute and maintaining that clear sheet decides these kind of video games,” Raya mentioned.
The goalkeeper’s acrobatic saves are usually not the one spectacular side of his sport.
Raya is given loads of duty with the ball at his ft and his passing vary and decision-making make Arsenal a greater attacking aspect.
“That is the evolution of the sport,” Arteta mentioned. “The keeper in the previous few years has modified and advanced quickly, and the quantity of issues that we ask him to do, it is lots.
“However many positions have very related conditions and calls for proper now, and the gamers must adapt to that.
“Other than the qualities of David, the braveness, the desire to do sure issues, that is when you may attain one other stage.”
However the Gunners boss wouldn’t be drawn on if he thought that Raya was the perfect goalkeeper on the earth.
“He is extraordinary, magnificent, unimaginable,” Arteta mentioned. “I do not know the suitable adjective. We’re so glad to have him.”
Raya has 15 clear sheets in 31 Premier League matches this season, probably the most within the division.
He shared the Golden Glove trophy with Nottingham Forest‘s Matz Sels in 2024-25 – however Arsenal will hope that if Raya lifts that non-public accolade once more, it’ll imply they’ve secured silverware as a staff too.
