Troy Deeney says he has a theory why Arsenal really decided to sell Aaron Ramsdale

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Eyebrows were raised back in 2023 when Arsenal signed David Raya to replace Aaron Ramsdale.

Mikel Arteta made the ruthless decision to change his number one goalkeeper after Ramsdale made a couple of high-profile errors towards the end of the 2022-23 campaign.

Arsenal were vying with Manchester City for their first Premier League title since 2004, however, dropped too many points from leading positions and ultimately finished in second place.

Raya was brought in from Brentford and Ramsdale eventually left the club to join Southampton in a £25m deal. Troy Deeney has a theory why the Gunners made the decision on selling the England international.

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Troy Deeney believes Arsenal sold Aaron Ramsdale due to his ability with the ball

Goalkeeping has changed in the modern game. Not only are they expected to save shots and claim crosses, but keepers are now the first line of attack.

Raya is commanded at Arsenal to play incisive passes through the lines in order to progress his side up the pitch from a deep position.

Speaking on talkSPORT’s ‘Outspoken with White and Jordan’ podcast, Deeney has revealed that he believes Ramsdale was sold by Arsenal because of his inability to play out from the back.

Deeney stated: “You’re looking at Aaron Ramsdale who’s gone in to go in as- He changes it at Newcastle because he can play with his feet and Nick Pope’s a very good shot stopper.

“But Nick doesn’t have the same ability with his feet that Aaron does. Again, I’m not sure, because Arsenal got rid of him because he’s not good with his feet.”

Ramsdale has recently moved to Newcastle and will battle against the Gunners once again in the Premier League next season.

Takehiro Tomiyasu was ‘impressed’ by Ramsdale during his time at the club and although he has now moved on, the England goalkeeper will always be remembered fondly by Arsenal supporters for his efforts.

Arsenal made the right decision in choosing David Raya over Aaron Ramsdale

Raya has looked ‘nervy’ in pre-season but since arriving in North London, the Spaniard has been excellent and a real foundation behind the club’s success.

In both seasons at the Gunners, Raya has won the Golden Glove award and become a real figure of calmness behind the formidable duo of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

It was a huge call from Arteta to replace Ramsdale when many believed he would be the number one keeper for years to come.

However, Arteta has often shown as Arsenal manager that he is not afraid to make bold decisions and this one has certainly paid off.