David Raya opens up on what relationship with ‘magnificent’ Arsenal star is like

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Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has been criticised since he replaced Aaron Ramsdale, but he has now claimed the pair have a good relationship.

The Spaniard was a surprise arrival this summer from Brentford, and usurped the popular Englishman, who was dropped despite a strong campaign last season.

Raya has made several high-profile errors, including a disastrous performance away at Luton, and there has been plenty of scrutiny over both goalkeepers.

Ramsdale has now been linked with an exit, but Raya has now admitted that the pair have a strong relationship despite the battle for the number-one spot.

David Raya speaks about relationship with Aaron Ramsdale

Speaking to official club media, Raya spoke about the difficult situation both keepers found themselves in after he replaced the England International.

“It’s a big thing when another goalie comes to a club,” Raya stated.

“Aaron had a magnificent season last year so I’m just here to help the team to win the games when the gaffer puts me in.

“My relationship with Aaron is really good. We’re teammates and try to make each other better in every single session. We don’t try to hear what the outside world is saying, just focus on the team,” he stated of their relationship.

“I’m enjoying every time I go out there, playing football and doing what I love, especially enjoying every single training session as well. It’s incredible to be part of this football club and hopefully we can fight for the title,” he added.

Arsenal’s goalkeeping problems

Mikel Arteta has created a far-from-ideal scenario, where both keepers are far from their best form.

Ramsdale came in against Brentford when Raya was ineligible to face his parent club, and looked shaky throughout the game, but kept a clean sheet.

The Englishman has had limited opportunities in the cup competitions, but despite Arteta’s previous insistence that both players would compete with each other, Ramsdale has not had a look-in even when Raya has been off-form.

It seems inevitable that Ramsdale will leave within the next two transfer windows, although Raya’s comments do indicate that the 25-year-old is still committed to the club and remaining professional despite his difficult situation.

Reports have indicated that Arteta would be unlikely to let Ramsdale leave in January, but if he is not going to gain a chance to win his place back and a significant offer comes in, he should be allowed to go, and potentially win a starting spot for England at the European Championships this summer.