Gary Neville’s David Raya theory came true vs Sunderland as expert now makes worrying Arsenal claim

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David Raya had an evening to forget at the Stadium of Light as his error proved costly as Arsenal threw away two points right at the death.

Sunderland held Arsenal to a 2-2 draw over the weekend, as Brian Brobbey netted a 94th-minute equaliser for the Black Cats.

Goals from Bukayo Saka and a sensational strike from Leandro Trossard looked to have cancelled out Dan Ballard’s opener, only for the Gunners to be undone by a moment to forget for the team’s Spanish goalkeeper.

Previously, Gary Neville had reservations over the shot-stopper, and these were proved correct on Wearside over the weekend.

David Raya cost Arsenal two points against Sunderland

Arsenal Insider’s transfer expert Graeme Bailey believes David Raya was the reason Arsenal dropped points away at Sunderland.

David Seaman and Arsenal fans slammed Raya for the error he made, which allowed Brobbey the chance to produce an audacious finish to equalise.

Earlier this season, Neville said he wouldn’t pick Raya over Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Bailey has now agreed with the former Manchester United defender.

“I’m not sure it’s a one-off because I think there’s one reason why Arsenal didn’t win that game, and it was David Raya. His goalkeeping on that final goal was appalling,” said Bailey.

“There was no need for him to come for that ball. He created that final goal for Sunderland. It was a nice finish from Brian Brobbey, but it had dropped almost into David Raya’s midriff.

“By Raya coming for that ball, he’s cost Arsenal those points, and I’ve never been a huge admirer of David Raya. In fact, I don’t think he’s world-class, and I don’t think he ever will be.

Bailey also believes Raya is not on the same level as Donnarumma, which might surprise many Arsenal fans.

“He’s a good keeper, he’s a good Premier League keeper, but he’ll never be in the Donnarumma class, which could come back to haunt them,” he added.

Raya has been mostly brilliant this season; however, some of his decision-making must improve to reach the next level.

David Raya leads the race for the Premier League Golden Glove award

Despite his error, Raya continues to lead the race for the Premier League Golden Glove award, as he bids to make it three in a row.

The Spaniard is top with seven clean sheets this season, meanwhile, his fellow countryman Robert Sanchez is second with five.

Sunderland’s goal on the weekend was the first Arsenal had conceded in 13 hours across all competitions, which left Arteta feeling sick.

Raya is certainly the beneficiary of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba’s excellent partnership, but he is also a top keeper in his own right.