Chris Sutton insists Arsenal star has ‘hands down’ proven Mikel Arteta was right about one thing

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Mikel Arteta has never shied away from making big decisions in his time as Arsenal manager. 

Mikel Arteta has overseen huge changes at Arsenal since his appointment as manager in December 2019.

He has transformed the North London club’s fortunes. The Gunners are now genuine contenders for the biggest prizes in the game, as the Spanish coach has constructed a talented and hungry squad.

The manager has had to back himself, taking risks and making unpopular decisions, to achieve this. He took the bold step of ousting superstar names such as Mesut Ozil and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang out of the club, for instance.

Last season, he brought David Raya to the Emirates Stadium, and quickly made the Spanish goalkeeper the Gunners’ first choice between the sticks ahead of fan favourite Aaron Ramsdale. 

• READ MORE: Everything to know on Arsenal’s David Raya from his girlfriend to tattoo

Chris Sutton hails Arsenal star David Raya

This decision sparked a huge debate, which lingered for a long time. Arsenal fans criticised Arteta, calling for Ramsdale’s return to the starting XI, after Raya was guilty of a few errors as he settled into the club. 

However, time has ultimately proven Arteta correct. Raya has been in magnificent form so far this season and has firmly established himself as the Arsenal no. 1. Meanwhile, Ramsdale has moved on to join newly-promoted Southampton in order to play regular football again.

Former Chelsea striker Chris Sutton has now praised Arteta and Raya for coming good at the Emirates Stadium.

Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live (22/10/2024, 22:22) after Raya impressed once again in Tuesday evening’s Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk, he said: “Defensively we have praised them for a number of seasons, I remember having the goalkeeper debate between Aaron Ramsdale and David Raya. Raya has won that hands down. Once again he got them out of trouble.”

Arsenal goalkeeper woes

Whilst Raya is now settled and impressing as the North London outfit’s first choice shot-stopper, finding reliable back up for the Euro 2024 winner has proved difficult.

Arsenal wanted Joan Garcia in the recent summer transfer window, but were unable to get a deal over the line. 

Ultimately, sporting director Edu Gaspar forced through the signing of Neto on transfer deadline day. The Brazilian veteran arrived on loan from Bournemouth, and does not represent a long-term solution, and is still waiting to make his debut for Arsenal.