David Raya's Golden Glove hunt ignites Arsenal's final push

David Raya's Golden Glove hunt ignites Arsenal's final push

The Gunners have already secured Champions League qualification and are virtually assured of finishing second, sitting three points ahead of Manchester City with a better goal difference.

Southampton, relegated to the Championship months ago, face a low-stakes encounter at St Mary's, but Arsenal remain driven.

Raya is locked in a tight race for the Golden Glove, tied on 13 clean sheets with Nottingham Forest's Matt Sels, who faces Chelsea in a crucial top-five battle.

"We're motivated to rack up as many points as possible," Mikel Arteta said. "We represent this club to win and play our way. The Golden Glove is still up for grabs, and we want the best defensive record to cap the season on a high."

Arteta's bold move to sign Raya from Brentford last summer, sidelining England international Aaron Ramsdale, sparked debate. Yet the 29-year-old Spaniard has silenced critics, potentially becoming the first Arsenal goalkeeper to claim back-to-back Premier League clean sheet titles. Ramsdale, now Southampton's No. 1, will face his former club in this finale.

Reflecting on Raya's signing, Arteta said, "It was unpopular and faced heavy pressure, but we trusted our analysis to elevate the team. David's consistent elite performances have won over everyone at the club and our fans."

Arsenal's defense faces challenges, with William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, and Gabriel sidelined. Riccardo Calafiori and Jakub Kiwior are set to anchor the backline.

Recent X posts from Arsenal's official account emphasized their focus, stating, "One last push for the season. Let's finish strong and back David for the Golden Glove!" Arteta also shared on X, "The team's mentality is spot on. We're ready to fight for every objective, no matter how big or small."

This clash, while lacking league-table drama, carries weight for Raya's personal milestone and Arsenal's defensive pride.

Related News

Casemiro ruled out as Man Utd face selection crisis at Villa Park

Casemiro ruled out as Man Utd face selection crisis at Villa Park

  • 10 hours ago

Manchester United are bracing for a tough trip to Aston Villa after midfielder Casemiro was ruled out through suspension, deepening a growing list of selection problems for manager Ruben Amorim.

Report: AC Milan close in on signing West Ham's Niclas Fullkrug

Report: AC Milan close in on signing West Ham's Niclas Fullkrug

  • 12 hours ago

AC Milan have taken a significant step towards signing West Ham United striker Niclas Fullkrug ahead of the January transfer window, with reports indicating personal terms have been agreed between the 32‑year‑old forward and the Italian club.

AFCON-bound Amad Diallo disappointed with Manchester United draw against Bournemouth

AFCON-bound Amad Diallo disappointed with Manchester United draw against Bournemouth

  • 13 hours ago

Ivory Coast winger Amad Diallo has revealed that Manchester United's dressing room was 'very disappointed' after the 4-4 thriller against Bournemouth on Monday.

Enzo Maresca shuts down 'worst 48 hours' remark as Chelsea target Cardiff victory

Enzo Maresca shuts down 'worst 48 hours' remark as Chelsea target Cardiff victory

  • 15 hours ago

Enzo Maresca has said he remains fully committed to Chelsea and has moved quickly to refocus attention on the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City, following his recent "worst 48 hours" remark.