David Raya Credits Arsenal’s Goalkeeper Coach for Vital Double Save in Champions League Draw
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya produced a stunning double save to secure a point in their Champions League opener against Atalanta. The Gunners failed to secure a win at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia, but they owe much to their summer signing after his incredible second-half heroics.
Raya saved a penalty from Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui, followed by an immediate rebound save from Retegui’s header, showcasing remarkable agility and composure. The Spanish goalkeeper’s efforts ensured Arsenal kept a clean sheet in a tough 0-0 draw.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Raya said, “It’s just a penalty, I was lucky to go the right way. I was unlucky to give the rebound straight to him, but I was lucky to get up and save it. It’s great to keep the clean sheet and help the team get a point.”
Raya also revealed how Arsenal’s goalkeeping coach, Iñaki Caña, played a key role in his preparation. “The decision to go to the sideline was because it took a long time to decide if it was a penalty or not. I went to the goalkeeper coach and asked where to go and what to do. He helped me a lot in every aspect, so credit to him as well,” Raya added.
Arsenal may have left Italy without a win, but Raya’s crucial saves and his reliance on guidance from Caña ensured they walked away with a hard-fought point.
