Jamie Carragher has highlighted Arsenal’s £27m swoop for David Raya as a masterstroke. He is calling it the club’s smartest bit of transfer business in recent memory.
David Raya proving his worth says Carragher
Arsenal spent out £27m to secure David Raya from Brentford after his loan spell. At the time, there were eyebrows raised. Some wondered why Mikel Arteta needed another keeper when Aaron Ramsdale was already settled.
Fast forward to this season Raya has been integral to Arsenal’s run of form. His composure under pressure and his ability to produce big saves when his team needs it most have been evidential.
In the UCL tie against Olympiacos, Raya reminded those watching the game why Arteta had pushed so hard to sign him. A reflex save to deny Daniel Podence ensured the Gunners’ lead at halftime.
On CBS Sports Golazo, Jamie Carragher said that the Spaniard has calmness and big impact upon the games. He believes that Arsenal could have found their perfect long-term keeper. After years of struggle in the goalkeeping unit, Raya undeniably feels like a best man. The player has brought so much confidence to the team.
Big call that paid off
The decision to bench Ramsdale and back Raya was never going to be an easy call. Arteta took a risk in pushing out a set keeper, but football is about tough choices. Raya’s consistency and shot-stopping ability have justified that risk. His distribution and confidence in big games have added an extra layer to Arsenal’s style of play.
Carragher believes that Arsenal’s £27m move looks like a bargain considering the stability it has brought.
As the season moves on, Raya’s performances are bound to remain under the scanner. Yet with every game, it becomes clearer why Carragher believes this was the smartest move from Arsenal.
Author’s Opinion:
Raya’s move shows that Arsenal finally nailed the balance between risk and reward. Carragher’s praise feels spot on. The keeper has turned what looked like a bold call into one of Arteta’s biggest wins.
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