David Raya or Aaron Ramsdale? Peter Schmeichel makes claim on Arsenal's goalkeeping conundrum
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has provided his opinion on Arsenal's goalkeeping situation. Speaking on CBS Sports following the Gunners' Champions League victory over PSV Eindhoven, he cast doubt on the signing of David Raya.
He said:
"Do you think Raya is a better goalkeeper than Ramsdale? Cause I don't!"
Raya was a surprise signing from Brentford for Arsenal this season. The Spaniard was signed on loan from the Bees for £3 million, with a pre-agreed transfer fee of £27 million to make the move permanent next season. This move came despite a strong 2022-23 campaign for Aaron Ramsdale, leaving many to question the signing of the 28-year-old.
A few Arsenal pundits believe the Spaniard being preferred over Ramsdale might be owing to his assuredness in cross-claiming, as well as his superior ball distribution skills. Raya made his first start for the club in the Premier League at the weekend against Everton. He also played in the UCL game against PSV.
The north London side were at their brilliant best against the Dutch side, dismantling PSV 4-0 in their long-awaited return to the Champions League. They are set to face Tottenham Hotspur next on Sunday, September 24.
Pundit blasts Arsenal manager for 'worst idea in football'
Former Newcastle United and West Ham United goalkeeper Shaka Hislop was critical of Arsenal's decision to rotate goalkeepers. Speaking to ESPN, he claimed that he was unable to understand the reasoning behind the decision.
He said:
“I am thoroughly confused by what Mikel Arteta is trying to get at,” said Hislop. “I don’t understand what he is saying. About his suggestion.
“As bad ideas go, this is right up there. I don’t think I have heard a worse idea in football. I am not sure whether it’s bad to think it or worse to say it out loud. I think what he has done there, and I have said this from the get-go, is that he has certainly alienated Aaron Ramsdale.
“I said all along. If David Raya is your number one, say that. That’s my number one, that’s who I am going with. If it’s Ramsdale, say that. But this kind of playing the two off each other, I don’t think it serves either well. This has gone above and beyond what I certainly didn’t expect.”
Raya made his first start for Arsenal against Everton in the Premier League. The Spaniard also made his UCL debut in the 4-0 win against PSV Eindhoven.
Fabrizio Romano reported earlier that the plan was for Raya and erstwhile primary option Aaron Ramsdale to compete for the starting position. The 25-year-old Englishman was impressive last season, keeping 14 clean sheets in the league, as the Gunners mounted an unlikely title charge. The north London side, however, faltered towards the end of the campaign, with Manchester City eventually pipping the Gunners to the Premier League trophy.