How Arsenal star has gone to an ‘incredible’ new level thanks to one brutal Mikel Arteta decision

Former England goalkeeper Ben Foster has now made a bold statement about Arsenal shot-stopper David Raya. 

David Raya played a key role for Arsenal as Mikel Arteta’s side earned a 2-2 draw against Manchester City on Sunday.

The Gunners were forced to adopt extremely defensive tactics in the second half following the sending off of Leandro Trossard just prior to the break.

Whilst the hosts were ultimately able to break the North London club’s resolve late on, with John Stones’ 98th minute equaliser, Micah Richards still commended Arsenal’s defensive effort.

The Gunners had been able to keep Pep Guardiola’s side at bay for more than 50 minutes, and Raya had played a key role in this rearguard action. The former Brentford man commanded his penalty area with authority, and made a number of vital saves.

Raya has been in scintillating form so far this season, and his latest display marked a continuation of his impressive efforts.

Aaron Ramsdale departure inspired David Raya to next level

As far as Ben Foster is concerned, Raya’s now unrivalled status as the Arsenal No. 1 has been a major factor in his recent improvement.

Speaking on the Fozcast, after Arsenal’s clash with Manchester City, the ex-shot-stopper heaped praise on the 8-cap Spain international.

He said: “I think he’s probably been Arsenal’s player of the season so far. Champions League in the week as well, on fire, penalty save, double save. He’s had every game, pretty much this season, he’s been making massive, top saves.

“Really big saves in really big moments. Came up tops yesterday again, really big saves again. He just looks happy and comfortable.”

The 41-year-old then added: “It’s no coincidence as well though that this season David Raya has been the best that he’s been for Arsenal since Aaron Ramsdale left, because there isn’t that ‘am I No. 1 am I No. 2?’

“Even when he was No. 1 last season, he knows that he’s got Aaron Ramsdale there, which is a bit of an uncomfortable situation. He knows now, there’s no doubt whatsoever, he’s No. 1, Neto is No. 2, just crack on with being a top goalkeeper.

“Everything has fallen into place now. He’s not on loan, he’s signed, he’s a permanent member of the squad. The manager loves him, the lads in front of him love him. He knows he is the No. 1… He’s been incredible.”

Why Mikel Arteta was right to let Ramsdale leave Arsenal

Aaron Ramsdale joined Southampton on Transfer Deadline Day. The England international needed to leave North London for the good of his career, having fallen behind Raya in the pecking order last season.

However, this move underlined Arteta’s faith in Raya as his first choice between the sticks. Having spent last season on loan at the Emirates Stadium, Raya was also signed by the Gunners from Brentford on a permanent basis this summer.

Ramsdale’s replacement, Neto, is very much a back up option, and Raya has clearly taken huge confidence from this development and now looks like an assured and settled presence in Arteta’s team.