David Raya has displaced Aaron Ramsdale as Arsenal’s number one.
Since Raya made his debut on September 17, he has only played in one match — the Carabao Cup victory at Brentford.
Ramsdale is a 25-year-old who was an important figure for the Emirates during the last two seasons. However, his future at North London now seems uncertain.
We look ahead to the Gunners meeting with Sheffield United, his former club.
Rumours about transfers
Rumours about a possible move from Arsenal have surfaced quickly.
Chelsea, according to Ben Jacobs transfer expert, are interested in Ramsdale. This is because summer signing Robert Sanchez has yet to perform consistently for the Blues.
Mikel Arteta’s refusal to give him a chance in the first team would make a move from the Arsenal goalkeeper across London a brave decision.
It remains to be determined whether the Gunners will sell their club to a direct competitor. However, Kai Havertz’s decision this summer indicates that business could be done between both clubs.
Stats don’t lie
Arteta’s decision to demote Ramsdale did not initially raise eyebrows. This was mainly because of Raya’s excellent performances for Brentford during the last season.
Some have questioned why Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger hasn’t recalled the Spaniard after a couple of erratic performances this season, most recently in the 2-2 tie with Chelsea at the weekend.
The numbers show that Raya is better suited for the Spanish tactician’s play style.
The 28-year old is the clear leader in Premier League for the number of touches, completed passes and long passes per 90-minute period.
Raya is also superior in terms of goalkeeping, having made more saves, intercepted crosses and regained sweeper-keepers for every 90 minutes.
The waiting game
Ramsdale will have a tough time earning crucial minutes in the game because of Arteta’s stubbornness, combined with the numbers.
West Ham’s Michail Anthony is aware of this situation, but has urged his goalkeeper to continue working hard and take advantage of any opportunities that may arise.
Ramsdale can only do what he does in training.
It’s up to Raya. If she comes out and says the same things next week, then I believe Ramsdale is in.
I think the manager should give him confidence that he made a mistake but that next week he will be better.
It’s all down to Ramsdale performing well during training, and then when the opportunity arises he seizes it.
Ramsdale might not have the patience to wait until the transfer window in January, with Euro 2024 looming and the competition for England’s squad at an all-time high.
