Jamie Redknapp has hailed David Raya as 'definitely' the best goalkeeper in the Premier League and 'maybe' the best in the world after Arsenal's crucial 1-0 victory over West Ham United on Sunday. The Gunners moved to within touching distance of their first Premier League title since 2004 with a dramatic win at the London Stadium.
Raya's Heroics Keep Arsenal in Title Race
Arsenal appeared to be heading for a frustrating draw against relegation-threatened West Ham, but goalkeeper David Raya produced a stunning point-blank save to deny Mateus Fernandes before Leandro Trossard scored the winner from Martin Odegaard's pass in the 81st minute. West Ham thought they had equalised through Callum Wilson in injury time, but the goal was ruled out after a VAR check, sparking wild celebrations among Arsenal fans.
Redknapp Praises Arteta's Decision
Speaking on Sky Sports, Jamie Redknapp credited Mikel Arteta for signing Raya from Brentford in 2023, despite initial doubts. 'When you think back, this is where the manager deserves credit because when David Raya first came, I wasn't sure about that decision. Arsenal already had a good goalkeeper in Aaron Ramsdale. I was thinking, "why are you making that change?" But this season Raya has shown he's definitely the best goalkeeper in the Premier League and maybe the best goalkeeper in the world.'
Redknapp described Raya's save as 'unbelievable,' highlighting how the Spaniard stood up and flicked out his right foot to deny Fernandes. 'It is an unbelievable save in the moment. You have to give the goalkeeper credit. He stands up and then he flicks out his right foot. It is an unbelievable save.'
Raya's Golden Glove Streak
Raya, now 30, has established himself as one of the world's elite goalkeepers since joining Arsenal. He has won the Premier League Golden Glove award in three consecutive seasons, keeping 18 clean sheets in 36 league games this term. Only three other goalkeepers in Premier League history have achieved this feat: Pepe Reina (Liverpool), Joe Hart (Manchester City), and Ederson (Manchester City).
Arteta Hails 'Magic Moment'
Mikel Arteta described Raya's save as 'incredible' and a 'magic moment' that could prove decisive in the title race. 'When you talk about magic moments, this is certainly one of the most needed moments as well to pull off with that save. It was incredible.'
Arsenal conclude their Premier League campaign with a home game against already-relegated Burnley and a trip to Crystal Palace. Arteta's side then face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final, aiming to complete a historic double after beating Atletico Madrid in the semi-finals.
