REVEALED: Why Arteta will bench Ramsdale for Raya in Arsenal’s next match

In a surprising turn of events, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly considering giving goalkeeper David Raya a chance to shine in the first team. According to a report by Mail Sport, Raya has impressed in training, particularly with his ability to accurately play out from the back.

Raya, who joined Arsenal on loan from Brentford this season, was brought in to provide competition for first-choice goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. However, it seems that the 27-year-old Spaniard has made quite an impression on Arteta with his performances in training.

Arsenal’s recent victory over Manchester United saw them climb to fifth position on the Premier League table with 10 points from four games. As the team heads into the first international break of the 2023/24 campaign, Arteta may be considering making some changes to the starting lineup.

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 03: Aaron Ramsdale of Arsenal before the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on September 03, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Ramsdale has been solid between the sticks since his arrival from Sheffield United, but Raya’s emergence as a potential first-team option has given Arteta food for thought. The Spanish goalkeeper’s ability to accurately play out from defence is a trait that Arteta values highly in his style of play.

While it remains to be seen whether Raya will indeed get a prolonged opportunity in the coming weeks, his performances in training have certainly caught the attention of the Arsenal coaching staff. Should he be given a chance, it will be interesting to see how he fares against top-flight opposition.

As Arsenal fans eagerly await the return of Premier League action after the international break, the prospect of Raya getting a chance to showcase his skills adds an extra layer of intrigue to the team’s upcoming fixtures. Only time will tell if Arteta decides to shake things up and give Raya a shot at proving himself in the first team.