Overview
- Raya confirmed to Sky Sports that he nearly signed for Bayern Munich before Arsenal moved for him, calling the decision to join the Gunners the best choice of his career.
- Arsenal’s pursuit stretched from an initial approach in 2020 to a 2023 loan from Brentford, with the move made permanent in July 2024 for about £27 million.
- He cited the head coach, club philosophy and a fast-improving, young squad as the key reasons he picked Arsenal over other suitors.
- Since arriving, Raya has amassed 60 clean sheets in 136 appearances across competitions and collected back-to-back Golden Glove awards.
- Selection remains a live issue in domestic cups: reports say Kepa Arrizabalaga started the Carabao Cup final over Raya as Arsenal lost 2-0 to Manchester City.