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Mikel Arteta Provides Update On David Raya Injury After Spaniard Missed Carabao Cup Victory

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Ben Horlock
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Ben Horlock Sports Editor

Ben Horlock is a sports news and features writer who holds a degree in sports journalism (BA Hons) from Southampton Solent University. Ben has been published across a wide variety of news outlets and websites including HITC, 90min, GiveMeSport, Betfair and Zoo Magazine. As well, Ben has worked in social media for four years in the sports gambling industry. For his sins, Ben is a QPR fan and is a keen follower of all the major European football leagues.

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Published18 hours ago on September 26, 2024

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Mikel Arteta

The latest David Raya injury update from Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has confirmed the Spanish goalkeeper is suffering with a muscle problem. 

Raya was ruled out of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup victory over Bolton Wanderers. Furthermore, he is a doubt for the visit of Leicester City on Saturday.

It comes as a huge blow as Raya has arguably been the Gunners’ best player so far this season. The 29-year-old has kept four clean sheets in six appearances across all competitions.

Additionally, he has pulled off two spectacular double saves this season to deny frustrated opponents. The first came in the Premier League victory over Aston Villa in August.

During the UEFA Champions League opener against Atalanta, Raya went one better when he saved superbly from a spot-kick and then thwarted the follow up attempt.

When Did The David Raya Injury Occur?

During Arsenal‘s frantic 2-2 draw with Manchester City, the David Raya injury issues became evident. After the game at the Etihad, Raya had strapping on around his leg.

Many had hinted or even directly suggested that Raya was feigning injury towards the end of the clash with the champions. However, it’s clear that the 29-year-old was not.

Mikel Arteta said after the Carabao Cup victory over Bolton that he wasn’t able to confirm nor deny Raya’s presence against Leicester City on Saturday.

“We don’t know yet. He’s got a muscular injury so we need to check,” Arteta explained. A decision on Raya will likely be made 24 hours before the game against the Foxes.

Who Will Replace David Raya?

The David Raya injury caused a minor goalkeeping headache for Mikel Arteta in the Carabao Cup fixture on Wednesday night.

Raya’s absence meant that 16-year-old academy player Jack Porter started in goal. Second choice shot stopper Neto was cup tied and Tommy Setford is not yet fit enough.

However, Neto will definitely be available to face Leicester City if called upon. The best football betting sites in the UK price Arsenal at 13/2 to beat the Foxes 3-0.

Whoever starts in goal in north London, the Gunners will likely have too much firepower up top to be troubled by Steve Cooper’s side.