Arteta: Expected criticism for changing Ramsdale for Raya at Arsenal

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s technical director, has revealed that he anticipated a negative reaction in England when making the decision to relegate Aaron Ramsdale in favor of David Raya. The Spanish goalkeeper is preparing to celebrate his 100th match with the club. Ramsdale, who arrived at Arsenal in 2021, had a notable performance, being recognized as the Goalkeeper of the Year at the London Football Awards two years later. Despite this, Raya was chosen to take his place, initially through a loan from Brentford in 2023, before finalizing his transfer permanently a year later. Ramsdale subsequently joined Southampton, while Raya has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League. He has kept a clean sheet in 41 of his 99 matches and has won the division’s Golden Glove in consecutive seasons, sharing last season’s award with Matz Sels of Nottingham Forest.

His record is incredible. I was criticized when I brought him. That also gives perspective. It’s very good to understand the game, especially when a few months or years pass. It’s really good to look back and reflect on that.

Mikel Arteta

Arteta admitted that he was aware of the controversy that this decision would generate. He acknowledged the context and understood the possible reactions, especially as it concerned a player much loved by the fans and an England international.

Raya’s ability to play from defense was seen as a key characteristic, although the Spaniard had to overcome a difficult initial period in which some Arsenal fans expressed concern about his distribution at the Emirates Stadium. Arteta added that Raya showed bravery in facing the situation, considering it a step forward in his career. The coaching staff believed that Raya was the right goalkeeper to bring something different to the team.