Iker Casillas has waded into a goalkeeping debate that Arsenal fans are tired of hearing.
Taking part in a winner stays on TikTok challenge with Adri Contreras, the Real Madrid and Spain legend was asked to choose between David Raya and Emiliano Martinez.
Casillas went with Martinez, the goalkeeper Mikel Arteta sold to Aston Villa for £20million back in 2020.
It is an argument that has never gone away since.
Martinez spent a decade at Arsenal without ever fully nailing down the number one spot, before leaving and going on to become — in fairness — one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
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Martinez has won the Yashin Award twice since leaving Arsenal
He won the World Cup with Argentina in 2022, where he was the hero of the penalty shootout in the final.
Raya, meanwhile, has won three consecutive Premier League Golden Gloves, been nominated for the PFA Player of the Year award, and has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
Arsenal fans made their feelings on the debate abundantly clear during the 4-1 win over Villa back in November, chanting “He’s better than you, David Raya, he’s better than you” in the direction of Martinez throughout.
The David Raya vs Emi Martinez debate still divides opinion
Casillas’ preference for Martinez is understandable in the context of the international stage.
The Argentine was the tournament’s standout goalkeeper in 2022, and his commanding presence and shot-stopping ability in high-pressure moments have made him one of the most established goalkeepers over the last decade.
But on a week-to-week, season-to-season basis, Raya’s numbers are exceptional.
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His record this season — the fewest goals conceded of any side in the Champions League (despite playing the most games), a third consecutive Golden Glove — is difficult to argue against.
Martinez will be at the World Cup looking to defend his title with Lionel Messi and Argentina.
Raya will be hoping to finally start for Spain, where he has long been overlooked in favour of Unai Simon. If he gets his chance and delivers, Casillas may favour his fellow Spaniard next time.
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