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.