David Raya’s performances in goal could lead to a Premier League title for Arsenal. His saves have been vital when the score has been level or Arsenal have had a one-goal lead.
Raya on Verge of Golden Glove
David Raya has earned at least a share of the Premier League Golden Glove award for a third successive season. He has kept 17 clean sheets in 35 games so far this season. Gianluigi Donnarumma is the only player who could match him, but he is on 13 with four league fixtures left.
It is increasingly likely that Raya will be the outright winner for 2025-26. He would be just the fourth goalkeeper to receive the award three seasons in a row. The others are Pepe Reina (2006, 2007, 2008), Joe Hart (2011, 2012, 2013) and Ederson (2020, 2021, 2022).
Season-Best Performance
The 17 clean sheets Raya has kept are already a season-best since he joined Arsenal in summer 2023. In his 105 Premier League appearances for the club, he has kept clean sheets in 46 of those matches (43.8 per cent).
Arteta’s Praise for Goalkeeper
Arsenal’s manager Mikel Arteta has commented on Raya’s performance. “He’s been exceptional,” Arteta said ahead of the trip to West Ham United. “His level of consistency has been something that nobody expected. He has reached a level that is incredibly high and sometimes we take some of the things he does as normal, but they are not.
“He has responded in crucial moments. For the third consecutive season, to achieve that is remarkable.”
Analysing Raya’s Best Saves
The Athletic has broken down five of Raya’s best saves this season. These saves could ultimately see Arsenal crowned champions for the first time since 2004. One save, made in the 76th minute against Brighton, was particularly vital. Arsenal were leading 2-1, but had seen their lead halved 12 minutes earlier.
Raya’s efforts look like they could finally result in a Premier League title for Arsenal.