Mikel Arteta Hails David Raya Heroics Against Atalanta

Posted by: Andre Reagan in International Football September 20, 2024

Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has come out to hail his goalie, David Raya’s heroics against the Italian side Atalanta. The gunners started their 2024-25 UEFA Champions League campaign against the Italian side in a nil draw. And if it wasn’t for the Gunners goalkeeper, Atalanta would have walked with all 3 points.

Midfielder Thomas Partey was adjudged by French referee Clement Turpin to have fouled Ederson in the 18-yard box. After a short probe by the VAR team whether the foul was inside or outside the box, a spot-kick was given.

Atalanta’s Argentinean attacker Mateo Retegui stepped up but Raya saved the penalty. However, what’s more impressive was the rebound.

The ball bounced back after the Spanish goalkeeper’s save and the Argentinean attacker headed back into the goal but Raya wasn’t letting him soil his penalty save.

The 29-year-old quickly put in a quick reflex to save this header. The game eventually ended goalless although last season’s Europa League winners were the better side compared to the Gunners.

Speaking about the game, Mikel Arteta said that the David Raya save is probably the best he has seen in his entire life.

“It was probably one of the best saves I have seen in my entire career.” he said.

The former Everton and Arsenal player now turned manager faced a lot of criticism when he replaced Aaron Ramsdale with Raya. This criticism was predominantly from the English press and some fans who had grown fond of Ramsdale.

The former Brentford goalkeeper has however repaid his countryman’s trust in him and is delivering what Arteta saw in him. He has already put in quite brilliant saves this season already.

The Gunners now turn their attention to a crunch clash with title rivals Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.

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