Why David Raya is officially the 'best in the world right now' according to his Spain rival

David Raya has been described as the best goalkeeper in the world right now by fellow Spain international Joan Garcia following another impressive season for Arsenal.

Garcia, who plays for Barcelona, praised Raya’s form when asked about the current standard of goalkeepers across European football.

The Spanish goalkeeper said Raya’s performances this season have set the benchmark for the position.

“I like David, he is having an incredible season in the Premier League,” Garcia said. “He is at a very high level and I am really enjoying his season.”

Raya has been one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers during the current campaign.

The 30-year-old has kept 15 clean sheets in 31 league appearances so far.

Those performances have played a key role in Arsenal’s push for the Premier League title.

Mikel Arteta’s side currently sit nine points clear at the top of the table.

Raya’s command of the penalty area and distribution from the back have been central to Arsenal’s style of play this season.

The Spaniard also finished last season as the Premier League’s leading goalkeeper in terms of clean sheets.

He recorded 13 clean sheets in the previous campaign.

In the 2023–24 season, Raya also finished top of the league’s clean sheet rankings with 16.

He is therefore on course to challenge for the Golden Glove award for a third consecutive season.

Despite his impressive form, Raya was not involved in Arsenal’s recent EFL Cup final defeat to Manchester City.

Arteta opted to start Kepa Arrizabalaga in goal for the Wembley showpiece.

Kepa was involved in the opening goal as City secured a 2-0 victory.

The decision sparked debate among supporters, many of whom believed Raya should have started the final.

Nevertheless, Raya’s performances across the season have strengthened his reputation both domestically and internationally.

The goalkeeper is currently with the Spain national team ahead of their upcoming friendlies.

Spain will face Serbia and Egypt during the international break.

Raya is expected to compete with Unai Simon and Garcia for the starting position.

The matches will form part of Spain’s preparations for the upcoming World Cup this summer.

Strong performances for both club and country could strengthen Raya’s case to become Spain’s first-choice goalkeeper at the tournament.

For now, however, Garcia’s praise underlines how highly Raya’s performances for Arsenal are regarded across European football.

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