Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has disclosed that he came extremely close to signing with Bayern Munich prior to his transfer to the Gunners.
Transfer Journey to Arsenal
Arsenal secured Raya on a season-long loan from Brentford in August 2023, making the move permanent the following year for £27 million. The Spanish shot-stopper plays a crucial role in Mikel Arteta’s squad as they chase four trophies this season, beginning with the Carabao Cup final this Sunday.
Raya explained his choice, highlighting the coach, the club’s philosophy, and the ambitious project. “Just obviously the coach, the philosophy that when they came for me, the project that was there, the club was rising,” Raya stated. “I just wanted to make a big step in my career coming from Brentford and I think Arsenal was the best team to do it.”
He added, “Obviously it was raising such a young squad as well and I think it was the best choice I’ve made to come to this club. I was very close to go to another club but obviously everything happened with Arsenal because it was right in between and everything. I was very, very close to going to another club but luckily it didn’t happen and Arsenal in the end made the bid and I came here.”
When pressed on the club, Raya confirmed: “It was Bayern Munich.”
Praise from Declan Rice and Thierry Henry
Teammate Declan Rice lauded Raya’s impact: “He deserves every bit of credit he’s getting. I wish people could come in every day and see how he trains. Because the intensity he trains at and the level that he trains at there’s no reason why he’s not doing what he’s doing on the pitch it’s incredible to see him every day. The effort he makes with the lads, he’s turned into a real leader for us and when you’ve got a keeper like that it gives everyone confidence and yes, he’s incredible.”
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry echoed the sentiment: “This guy should be in contention to be player of the season because of what he does for Arsenal every single time. It’s very difficult sometimes to see what a goalkeeper does because he cannot always make you win the game. He can make you hope that you’re not losing it by making saves, but he does that two to three times every single game. It’s just outstanding.”
Toughest Training Opponent
Raya identified Gabriel Jesus as his most challenging opponent in Arsenal training sessions. “I would say probably Gabriel Jesus because he’s so technical, he can do anything inside the box,” Raya said. “It’s so, so tricky to go one versus one with him. He’s a flair player, he’s Brazilian, he has so much technique.”
