Legendary former Arsenal striker Alan Smith was extremely impressed by one of Mikel Arteta’s stars in Saturday’s win over Wolves. 

Arsenal got back to winning ways with a 2-0 triumph over Wolves on Saturday evening. 

It was not easy going for the Gunners at Molineux. They were made to fight for this win over the Midlands outfit, and David Raya had to make a couple of vital interventions to preserve his clean sheet. 

The Spanish goalkeeper’s biggest contribution came in the first half, as he produced an outstanding reaction save to turn Joao Gomes’ fierce strike from point blank range onto the post. The Wolves attacker had his head in his hands in disbelief, as his shot had looked destined to nestle in the back of the net, before Raya’s fingertips diverted it onto the woodwork.

The Brentford loanee was also reliable with the ball at his feet, routinely playing around the Wolves press in a calm and assured manner, and commanding the space in his box with authority.

David Raya underlines importance to Arsenal with Wolves display

Raya had his doubters when he first arrived at the Emirates Stadium in the recent summer transfer window. The Gunners’ previous No. 1, Aaron Ramsdale, is a popular figure amongst the club’s supporters. Earlier on in the campaign, many Arsenal fans felt that Ramsdale ought to be the first-choice between the sticks ahead of Raya. 

However, Mikel Arteta kept faith in the 28-year-old, and has been rewarded for his trust in the player. The Gunners have now kept clean sheets in six consecutive Premier League away matches, and boast the best defensive record in the top flight of English football.

The goalkeeper has been a big part of this consistent solidity. Raya has even been tipped as an outside candidate to win the Arsenal Player of the Season award. 

Alan Smith was certainly pleased with what he saw from the 4-cap Spain international against Wolves. Commentating on Sky Sports (20/04/2024, 21:12), the pundit stated, “he has been really tidy, David Raya, tonight. Safe handling. Brilliant save from Joao Gomes.”

Arsenal are now set to shell out £27 million to sign Raya on a permanent basis.

How important was win v Wolves to Arsenal?

This was a huge win for Arteta’s side.

The Gunners needed to bounce back from the two consecutive defeats they had suffered heading into this match. Against Aston Villa, they surrendered control of the Premier League title race, before being eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern Munich.

The North London club needed to show their character against Wolves. They were able to do that with a performance typified by Raya’s composed display.