22 January 2024 , 20:02
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Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has admitted his start to life at the Emirates has been difficult, but made clear he is heading in the right direction.
The Spain international joined the Gunners on loan from fellow Premier League outfit Brentford at the back end of the summer transfer window, which raised plenty of eyebrows from fans and pundits alike, all of whom expected Aaron Ramsdale to maintain his place as Arsenal's first-choice shot-stopper.
Mikel Arteta's decision to drop the England ace in favour of Raya came under further scrutiny when the 27-year-old was guilty of some high-profile blunders. From being beaten by Mykhaylo Mudryk's mis-hit cross away at Chelsea to letting Ross Barkley's shot squirm underneath him against Luton, the spotlight has been firmly on Raya and his form over the last few months.
However, more recently, the goalkeeper has actually been one of the more reliable performers for the Gunners. It has often evaded detection given a collective blip and some surprise defeats, but Raya has been reliable in possession, responsible for some stellar saves and even stopped a penalty during the home loss against West Ham.
It was Raya's quick thinking that was the foundation of Arsenal's decisive third goal against Crystal Palace on Saturday to put the tie beyond any doubt. Just 10 seconds separated the Spaniard catching Will Hughes' cross and Leandro Trossard firing the Gunners into a three-goal lead.
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Raya's vital contribution did not go unnoticed, with Arteta singling him out for praise and after the game, the man himself opened up on his tricky start since joining the club on loan. He admitted: "I think you need time to adapt to a new team, new club, new facilities and new demands.
"It’s not easy, but I think I am finding my feet and I am finding myself now. Of course I am feeling part of the team."
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David Raya played a vital part in Arsenal's third goalArteta's post-match assessment will have only helped Raya feel more settled, with the Arsenal boss heaping praise on the goalkeeper after facing a question on his contribution to the goal. He added: "When teams sit low, it is a great way to do it, David reading the space, Gabby's [Jesus] action as well and Leo [Trossard], he did what he does best which is have all the composure in the world inside the box to make the right decision.
The Arsenal boss also made a point of acknowledging Raya's efforts in the moment. While a number of outfield players ran over to celebrate with Trossard, Arteta pointed at his goalkeeper passionately, shouting 'Vamos' in a bid to show his appreciation.