"I would still pick him" - Arsenal's David Raya names 32-year-old superstar as best goalkeeper in the world
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has insisted Thibaut Courtois is the best goalkeeper in the world despite the Real Madrid shot-stopper's injury issues. The Spaniard has received similar praise amid a stunning season with the Gunners.
Raya, 29, responded to suggestions he's among the best in the world with humility. He said ahead of his club's UEFA Champions League clash with Sporting CP tonight (November 26). He told reporters (via Metro):
"It's nice to be in that talk and it’ll be nice to be there, but my aspiration is just to play football."
When pressed on who the best in the world is, he said:
"Right now? That’s a tough question. I would say, for me, it’s Thibaut Courtois. Obviously he’s been injured but I would still pick him."
Courtois won the 2022 Yashin Trophy, which recognizes the best goalkeeper in world football. He spent 2023 sidelined due to an ACL injury but returned for Madrid's Champions League final in June this year.
The Belgian has been available this season and has kept five clean sheets in 13 games across competitions. He's renowned for his superb shot-stopping abilities and command of his box.
Raya is on a similar trajectory amid top-notch performances for Arsenal. The Spanish shot-stopper has kept seven clean sheets in 16 games across competitions.
"One of the best" - Alan Shearer hailed Arsenal's Raya among PL's top goalkeepers
Raya's response to the world's best goalkeeper came after Alan Shearer praised him. The Newcastle United icon said that although the former Brentford man isn't the best in the Premier League, he's among the top goalkeepers (via the source above):
"When you look at what Ederson does for Man City and Alisson at Liverpool, I wouldn’t say Raya is the best in the Premier League, yet. There’s no doubt he’s up there though as one of the best."
Mikel Arteta received intense scrutiny for signing Raya and replacing previous No.1 Aaron Ramsdale. Shearer added:
"You’ve got to give Arteta credit for doing that, because it certainly has worked out, for the better. Raya is exactly what Arsenal and Arteta wanted in terms of a ball-playing goalkeeper, who can start moves the way Arsenal want."
Raya hasn't just been excellent with his hands as displayed with a double save in the Gunners' 0-0 draw with Atalanta (September 19). He's also been calm in possession, helping Arteta's side move the ball forward with his ball-playing abilities.
