Mikel Arteta has shielded David Raya from critics after the latter nearly conceded a cheap goal due to poor clearance in the Premier League match against Manchester City.
David Raya failed to clear his line perfectly after receiving a long ball as he crashed it on an onrushing Julian Alvarez.
The rebound nearly flew into the net before it cannoned off over the goalpost. Some fans have began to question Arteta’s decision to bench Aaron Ramsdale for David Raya after the tummy-screwing error in the City game.
Amid the backlash by fans and pundits, Arteta seems to share a different opinion and is not giving any glue to changing his stand on David Raya soon.
Arteta said after the match: “David Raya is a very good goalkeeper. He made a mistake today, but we all make mistakes. We need to support him and help him to move on.”
The Arsenal manager also pointed out that Raya had made some important saves in the match. He said: “David made some good saves in the game. He kept us in the game until the very end.”
Arteta’s defense of Raya is important for the goalkeeper’s confidence. He is a young player, and he is still learning. Mistakes are a part of the learning process.
Raya has been on his best since dislodging Aaron Ramsdale to become Arsenal No.1. He is a talented goalkeeper, and he has the potential to be one of the best in the world. Arteta’s support is important for his development.
