Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that goalkeeper David Raya is doubtful for Saturday’s Premier League encounter against Leicester City due to a muscle injury sustained during the thrilling 2-2 draw at Manchester City last weekend.
Raya’s injury raised eyebrows as he collapsed to the pitch late in the match, leading some to accuse the Euro 2024 winner of time-wasting. However, it was evident that something was amiss when reporters later saw him limping through the mixed zone at the Etihad Stadium with a bandage on his thigh. Arteta confirmed that the £27 million signing is indeed dealing with an injury.
When asked about Raya’s potential availability for the upcoming match against Leicester, Arteta, after watching his side secure a commanding 5-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday night, stated, “We don’t know yet. He’s got a muscular injury, so we need to assess the situation further.”
With Raya sidelined, 16-year-old Jack Porter made history by becoming the youngest goalkeeper to ever represent Arsenal, stepping into the limelight as the second-youngest player in the club’s history, following in the footsteps of talented midfielder Ethan Nwaneri, who scored twice in the win.
Arteta praised Porter’s composure under pressure, noting, “We informed him yesterday, and he was over the moon. I think he shared the news with his family, who weren’t quite prepared for it. It’s a big step and a significant occasion for him, which understandably made them a bit nervous. However, he handled it remarkably well, showing great composure both in training and today.”
In addition to Raya’s concerns, the Gunners are also facing fitness issues with Jurrien Timber and Ben White. Timber has been experiencing discomfort in his thigh, while White is managing slight knee pain, which kept him out of the starting lineup against City.
Regarding the young players who featured in the match against Bolton, Arteta humorously noted, “There are a few who will have to go to school tomorrow! They were buzzing after the game, and it was heartwarming to see them thank their teammates. It was a nice moment for all involved.”
As Arsenal prepares for the critical clash against Leicester, they will closely monitor the fitness of their players, with Arteta hoping to field a strong side despite the injury setbacks.
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