David Raya revealed that "Arsenal" manager Mikel Arteta has provided no guarantees about his status as first-choice goalkeeper for the 2024/25 season. The Spanish shot-stopper finds himself facing fresh competition following the arrival of his compatriot Kepa Arrizabalaga at the London club.
"Nothing. Kepa just came as a new teammate to add another goalkeeper to our group. The coach hasn't said anything, so we'll see how it goes," Raya explained when asked about his situation.
The goalkeeper appears unfazed by the potential battle for the starting position. He emphasized the positive relationship with his new competitor, with whom he already has experience from international duty.
Kepa Arrizabalaga's arrival has certainly created an interesting dynamic in "Arsenal's" goalkeeper department. Yet Raya seems to be taking it all in stride.
"We're friends. We played together for the national team, and now here, so we have a healthy relationship and, let's say, a healthy partnership in goal. We understand how difficult it is to be a goalkeeper, as only one can be on the field. We'll see how everything works out. It's the coach's business, he'll decide," Raya stated.
Interestingly, Raya's performance last season was quite solid. The Spaniard featured in 50 matches across all competitions for the Gunners, conceding 50 goals while keeping 19 clean sheets – not bad stats for his first season at the club.
Will Arteta stick with Raya as his number one, or might Kepa challenge for the starting spot? The ball is now in the manager's court.
