David Raya: Why Arsenal Goalkeeper Won't Play Against Brentford

David Raya: Why Arsenal Goalkeeper Won't Play Against Brentford

Fred Kennedy
updated at November 23, 2023 at 9:00 AM
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  • David Raya joined Arsenal in the summer on an initial loan deal from Brentford
  • The deal means the Spaniard is ineligible to face his parent club this weekend
  • His absence will see Aaron Ramsdale start between the sticks instead of the bench

Arsenal will be without goalkeeper, David Raya when they take on Brentford this weekend ahead of the Premier League's return.

Raya has been a mainstay figure in the Gunners' starting XI, with Mikel Arteta showing a clear preference for him over Aaron Ramsdale.

David Raya in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Burnley FC at Emirates Stadium. Photo by Marc Atkins.
David Raya in action during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Burnley FC at Emirates Stadium. Photo by Marc Atkins.
Source: Getty Images

The Spaniard joined the Gunners in the summer on loan from Brentford, per ESPN, with the north Londoners having the option of making the deal permanent next season for £27 million.

It is understood that Arsenal put off paying a significant fee for the shot-stopper when he arrived in a bid to avoid breaching Financial Fair Play rules.

As such, the 28-year-old is ineligible to face his parent club when Arteta's charges take on the Bees on Saturday, November 25.

Ramsdale set for return

The unavailability of Raya for selection will see Ramsdale make a return between the sticks for Arsenal in the encounter.

The Englishman has not played a top flight game since the start of September when his side beat rivals, Manchester United.

According to Metro UK, his only opportunities since then have come in the Carabao Cup, with Raya cementing his place as Arteta's new No. 1.

Ramsdale will be hoping to use the Brentford tie to make an impression as he looks to win back Arteta's faith.

Meanwhile, the Gunners will head into the clash sitting third in the Premier League standings with 27 points, a point behind leaders, Manchester City.

5 controversial decisions against Arsenal

Sports Brief also previously analysed five controversial decisions against Arsenal after Arteta went on a rant following the decision against his team in the 1-0 loss to Newcastle.

The Gunners were also on the wrong side of poor officiating after Man City star, Mateo Kovacic escaped a red card for two offences, although a win compensated the Londoners.

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Fred Kennedy
Editor - Europe Team