Gary Lineker believes that Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya must now be considered “world-class” after his performance in the victory against Aston Villa.
Mikel Arteta’s team secured their second win of the season as second-half goals from Leandro Trossard and Thomas Partey helped Unai Emery’s side defeat Unai Emery’s team at Villa Park.
When the score was still 0-0, Raya made a spectacular save to deny Ollie Watkins’ shot. Raya also made a crucial save in the victory against Wolves in the first round.
Lineker believes that Raya has now reached “world-class” status and praised Arteta for deciding to sign Raya, even though Arsenal’s previous number one goalkeeper, Aaron Ramsdale, had been performing effectively. Lineker said: “Mikel Arteta clearly isn’t afraid to make big decisions. This time last year, we were questioning why he brought in David Raya, but you have to say, he looks like a really good goalkeeper.”
“He made a spectacular save last week, and he did it again against Aston Villa. How quickly did he get up from the ground to block Ollie Watkins and make that save? It was truly world-class.”