Raya has stored essentially the most clear sheets of any goalkeeper in Europe’s prime 5 leagues, together with his 22 throughout all competitions 4 away from Inter’s Yann Sommer.
The previous Brentford goalkeeper has change into an enormous presence at Arsenal and is a part of the crew’s management group.
He made a significant 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 degree earlier than Havertz’s winner.
“It is one thing that I am there for. I am making an attempt to assist the crew as a lot as potential 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 – essentially the most of any goalkeeper and any facet 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 protecting that clear sheet decides these sort of video games,” Raya stated.
The goalkeeper’s acrobatic saves should not the one spectacular facet of his recreation.
Raya is given a whole lot of duty with the ball at his ft and his passing vary and decision-making make Arsenal a greater attacking facet.
“That is the evolution of the sport,” Arteta stated. “The keeper in the previous couple of years has modified and developed 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 should adapt to that.
“Aside from the qualities of David, the braveness, the desire to do sure issues, that is when you possibly can attain one other degree.”
However the Gunners boss wouldn’t be drawn on if he thought that Raya was the very best goalkeeper on the planet.
“He is extraordinary, magnificent, unbelievable,” Arteta stated. “I do not know the best adjective. We’re so comfortable to have him.”
Raya has 15 clear sheets in 31 Premier League matches this season, essentially 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 is going to imply they’ve secured silverware as a crew too.
