Journalist Adrian Clarke believes that Arsenal must find an upgrade on one current regular starter if they are to achieve Champions League glory in the future. 

Arsenal reached the quarter-final stage of the Champions League this season for the first time in 14 years, before being ejected from the competition at the hands of Bayern Munich. 

Mikel Arteta will be desperate for his side to improve their showing in Europe next season. There is no reason why this Arsenal side, who are now genuine Premier League title contenders, shouldn’t be eyeing up glory in Europe’s elite club competition. 

Arteta will need to strengthen his squad if they are to triumph in the Champions League, and he will be aiming to do just that in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The North London club will look to reinforce their ranks in several key areas. Arsenal have been linked with a host of strikers. There will also be additions made in midfield. Arteta will be seeking a new signing who can help to bring the best out of Declan Rice. 

One position that seems safe is that of the goalkeeper, as Arsenal are set to shell out £27 million to make David Raya’s switch to the Emirates Stadium permanent. 

Should Arsenal worry about David Raya in the Champions League?

However, Adrian Clarke Believes that an upgrade between the sticks may also be necessary if Arsenal are serious about finding success at the very highest level of the game. 

Speaking on the Handbrake Off podcast, the reporter said: “If I were to ask you three positions on the team that I think we can upgrade to be a Champions League-winning team, I would include goalkeeper in it. 

“That might feel harsh to say that right now, but it’s my honest opinion. Is he [Raya] best-in-class? Is he world-class? I don’t know, I’m not sure that he is. But, he’s still had a fine season…long-term, he’s going to have to be better.”

The good and bad of David Raya

In general, Arteta will be very pleased with Raya’s contribution this season. For the most part, he has been an assured presence at the back. The Spaniard commands his box with authority, and excels at claiming crosses that are delivered into his penalty area.

Raya was recently confirmed as the winner of this season’s Golden Glove award, as he has kept more clean sheets in the Premier League than any other top-flight shot-stopper.

However, there have also been difficult moments for the 28-year-old, including in the Champions League. Many Arsenal fans laid the blame for a goal conceded against Porto in the competition at Raya’s feet.

Raya has also been criticised for lacking stature and physicality. For all of his good qualities, there are certainly flaws in his game, which may well be exposed by truly elite opposition.