David Raya played a big part in Arsenal reaching the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in 14 years by saving two penalties against Porto. The Gunners are ready to make his stay permanent by activating his buyout clause this summer which has been reported to be around £27 million. Raya, currently on loan from Brighton, has been impressive in Arsenal’s goal, featuring in 27 matches across all competitions, while conceding 23 goals and keeping 13 clean sheets. Commenting on his penalty shootout heroics the Spaniard jokingly said: “I should have saved three, but I’m over the moon to save two. It’s a great feeling.”
Magical night at the Emirates. Through to the quarterfinals💥 @Arsenal pic.twitter.com/NTaPl8ey3g
— David Raya Martin (@daviidraya1) March 13, 2024
Raya’s performance has not gone unnoticed by manager Mikel Arteta, who praised the goalkeeper’s stability and presence on the field by saying: “I don’t have to see him now, I was convinced he was going fantastic. You see in the first few days here… his body language, the position that he takes, he doesn’t get very affected and that’s a key quality for a goalkeeper”.
The North London club is also focusing on securing the team’s future, with a new deal already completed for Tomiyasu and another one expected soon for Ben White.