David Raya believes Spain “are in good hands” no matter who starts in goal at the World Cup, as he battles with Unai Simon and Joan Garcia to be Luis de la Fuente’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Raya’s Stellar Season
The Arsenal goalkeeper had an outstanding campaign, helping the Gunners win their first Premier League title in 22 years and reach the Champions League final. Joan Garcia also impressed as Barcelona won La Liga, but reports suggest Simon will start.
Simon has been Spain’s number one for the past three major tournaments, including their Euro 2024 victory.
Raya’s Confidence in Team
“I think Spain is in good hands, whoever plays,” Raya told a press conference in Chattanooga. “Since Unai debuted, he has performed at a really high level. We have won the Nations League, the Euros with him, and he’s a great goalkeeper.”
Raya, 30, has spent most of his career in England. He moved to Blackburn as a teenager and had a loan spell at sixth-tier Southport before making his name at Brentford. At Arsenal, he has won the Premier League Golden Glove every season.
Overlooked in Spain?
Much of the debate in Spain has focused on whether Garcia should start ahead of Simon, rather than Raya. “I have spent a lot of years abroad. The first time I came to the national team, sometimes they asked who I was,” he said. “I am doing my job for my club to be the best I can be and to represent my country, which is the most important thing. I am here to help the team win the second World Cup star.”
Raya’s club season was spectacular. Arsenal ended their long Premier League drought and reached their first Champions League final in 20 years, but lost on penalties to Paris Saint-Germain.
“Personally, it was a very successful season, and collectively it was spectacular,” Raya said. “We won the Premier League, which our fans wanted so much. I am very happy with my performances.”
Spain begin their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde in Atlanta, before facing Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group H.
