Arsenal told ‘unbelievable’ star proved why Arteta ‘splashed’ cash on him vs Man City after ‘so many headlines’

Arsenal put in a valiant defensive effort against Manchester City on Sunday. 

Arsenal still led until the 98th minute of the match, despite having been down to ten men since the end of the first half.

With Leandro Trossard having been given his marching orders just before the break, Mikel Arteta’s side had to soak up a great deal of pressure in the second half.

David Raya impressed Arsenal fans, whilst the likes of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba also produced eye-catching performances at the back.

Shay Given singles out David Raya after Arsenal vs Manchester City

Whilst his goal was breached late on, Raya will still be able to reflect upon his evening’s work at the Etihad Stadium with pride.

Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Shay Given, speaking on Match of the Day, was quick to praise the Spanish shot-stopper.

He said: “David Raya has had so many headlines since he joined the football club, but today… David Raya went out again and showed why they splashed the money at Brentford and brought him in… Because the defence was so deep, he sees them [shots on his goal] late, and his reactions are unbelievable.”

Mikel Arteta faith in Raya justified

Arsenal signed Raya on loan from Brentford at the start of last summer, and he usurped Aaron Ramsdale as the first choice between the sticks shortly after his arrival at the Emirates Stadium.

However, there were nervy moments for the 29-year-old in his first season in North London. Arteta was criticised for his faith in Raya at times, especially as Ramsdale remained such a popular figure amongst the fanbase.

However, the manager kept his faith in Raya, and his performances improved as the season went on. In the most recent summer transfer window, the Gunners signed the ‘keeper on a permanent basis for £27 million, as he became a champion at Euro 2024.

The 8-cap Spain international has started the new season in scintillating form, and all the headlines that accompanied his replacement of Ramsdale, as referred to by Given, are long gone now.

He has justified Arteta’s conviction in him, and is now an assured and confident presence at the back for Arsenal, who clearly has the trust of his teammates and the support of the fans.