With Manchester City looming on the horizon, Arsenal could not afford to go cold in front of goal this week.
However, the Gunners’ defensive stalwart, David Raya, proved instrumental in their Champions League opener against Atalanta, showcasing his skills with a stunning double save from Mateo Retegui’s 51st-minute penalty.
As VAR assessed a foul by Thomas Partey on Atalanta’s Ederson, Raya took the opportunity for a quick chat with goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana, emphasizing the team’s commitment to preparation. Known for his exceptional penalty-saving ability, Raya previously helped send Arsenal to the Champions League quarter-finals with two crucial stops against Porto last season.
DAVID RAYA, TAKE A BOW!
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 19, 2024
One of the best double saves you'll ever see 🤯
📺 @tntsports & @discoveryplusUK pic.twitter.com/sPgZF293QI
In August, he won the Premier League’s Save of the Month award for an incredible stop against Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but his latest save was arguably even more remarkable. Raya first dove to his right to deny Retegui’s penalty, then quickly regained his footing to fingertip the follow-up header, preventing a certain goal and securing a point for a lackluster Arsenal.
While this draw against a tough Italian side could be seen as a reasonable outcome, it may dampen morale ahead of their significant clash with Manchester City. Arsenal’s recent victory over Tottenham featured a strong defensive display but lacked the attacking flair that fans had hoped for.
Once again, the Gunners struggled to find the back of the net, unable to create the moments of brilliance needed to clinch a tight contest. A goalless draw against City would not be catastrophic, but last season’s 0-0 encounter ultimately cost Arsenal a chance at their first Premier League title in 20 years.
Mikel Arteta’s side needs to shift the narrative and seize the initiative against Pep Guardiola’s formidable team. Currently, they appear incapable of breaking down defenses, struggling to score in critical moments.
Adding to the challenges, Arteta confirmed that captain Martin Ødegaard would be sidelined for the foreseeable future due to ankle ligament damage. However, he welcomed back Declan Rice after suspension and saw Riccardo Calafiori return from a calf injury.
Despite the growing injury crisis, Arteta made just two changes from the North London Derby, bringing in Rice and Gabriel Jesus for Jorginho and Leandro Trossard. This bold decision underscored his desire to maintain momentum as they head into a pivotal match against City.
Initially, Arsenal seemed to validate Arteta’s choices, controlling the game with confident play. Bukayo Saka came close with a deflected shot that resulted in a corner, while Kai Havertz linked up with Jesus, whose effort unfortunately drifted wide.
As Arsenal gears up for their clash at the Etihad, questions remain about their attacking prowess and whether they can find the form needed to challenge for the title.
