Alan Shearer identifies brutal Mikel Arteta decision that has taken Arsenal to next level

Former England striker believes Gunners boss deserves praise for the way he handled his goalkeeping situation – and got it right

Alan Shearer reckons Mikel Arteta’s brutal decision over David Raya has paid dividends – but he’s not the Premier League ’s best goalkeeper.

The Arsenal stopper is once again in terrific form this campaign, demonstrating why Gunners boss Arteta put so much faith in him. He initially brought the Spain international in on a season-long loan from Brentford last term but – after ousting Aaron Ramsdale from the No1 role – made that a permanent deal this season.

England keeper Ramsdale was sold to Southampton for £25m in the summer and Shearer told Betfair: “David Raya has starred this season, and he took that form into the international break with Spain too.

“But 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. When you consider the noise that was around when Mikel Arteta signed him and he went up against Aaron Ramsdale, having both of those goalkeepers didn’t quite feel right.

“However, 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.

“He’s also a good shot-stopper, which we’ve seen so many times this season; he’s saved them points, not only in the Premier League, but in the Champions League as well.”

The Premier League’s record goalscorer also discussed how an injury to Bukayo Saka could jeopardise Arsenal’s long bid to finally win the title again. The winger limped off in England’s shock loss to Greece last week and Sherer said: “t would be a huge blow for Arsenal’s title hopes if Bukayo Saka is out for any length of time, especially with the injury Martin Odegaard has too.

“It looks to be minor, but we’re not sure how long Saka will be out for, so for Arsenal to lose two of their big players, and both of those are huge players, it would be a massive blow to Arsenal. When you look at what he brings to the team with his energy, his ability and his attitude, he’s without doubt, one of their top players.

“We know what he brings to Arsenal and England, so they need to get him fit because he offers them so much. I hope Saka’s injury is not too bad and by all accounts it doesn’t sound like it is, so it could be good news for him and Arsenal.”

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.