David Raya Praises Team's Strength as Essential to Multiple Trophy Challenge
David Raya has stated that intense competition for starting positions is fueling Arsenal's outstanding run, with the keeper asserting that the team's roster under Mikel Arteta is so remarkable that they can compete for several trophies this season.
Dominant Victories Highlight Arsenal's Prowess
The North London club's recent 4-0 triumph over Atlético Madrid represented their sixth straight victory and 10th success in 12 matches. Having let in just three goals—the fewest at this point in the team's legacy—they have secured a narrow advantage at the Premier League summit and a perfect record in the European competition after three matches.
Rotation and Depth Key to Achievements
The goalkeeper has started in almost all matches, aside from one domestic cup fixture, but the manager has consistently rotated the team following heavy spending on new signings. In response about chasing multiple trophies, he said, "Absolutely, I think so. Our squad strength is amazing. We have many players who can perform in multiple positions."
Like in the Atlético match, Mikel Merino was introduced as a striker and can also play as a No 8 or No 10. That versatility is what the boss has, and he's using it to benefit the team. It's looking very, very good, and that depth is crucial for us.
Competition Drives Standards
The Spain international continued, "That provides an additional edge in practice and games because if you're not at it, you can lose in a fraction of a second. It creates healthy competitiveness in training and during matches, which is vitally significant, and the whole squad accepts it."
Defensive Solidity a Collective Effort
The team have let in just a single goal from open play this season, and Raya has had to deal with only one shot on target in their recent victories against Atlético, Fulham, and West Ham.
"It's a collective effort from the forwards to the goalie," he said. "Everyone is focused, no one wants to concede, and we aim to intercept passes before it reaches the halfway line. By winning it back, we can launch a quick counter. It's crucial for everyone to feel this mentality, and opponents aren't creating many chances, which is perfect."
