Arteta was right! Maligned Arsenal signings key in revival
Criticism has surrounded the Gunners' transfer decisions this season, yet many of their recent signings have excelled in recent matches.
If David Raya hadn't pulled off two remarkable saves during Arsenal's penalty shootout win against Porto on Tuesday evening, there's a strong possibility that the passionate Arsenal supporters would have been engulfed in a wave of frustration and anger.
Throughout both legs of this Champions League last-16 clash, the Portuguese side employed a range of unsportsmanlike tactics, leaving fans, staff, and players feeling deeply unsettled. However, despite Porto's cynical tactics, it was Arsenal who secured their spot in the quarter-finals, with Raya playing a significant role - quite literally - in their memorable triumph.
Following the match, Mikel Arteta showered praise on his goalkeeper, expressing his confidence in Raya's ability to handle the pressure: "I had every belief that would be the case. You observe him during those initial days here, the challenges he faced and how he remained composed. His body language and decision-making show minimal impact from external pressures. These qualities are essential for his position."
Criticism arose over Arteta's decision to overlook Ramsdale
Which further underscored the significance of Raya's match-winning performance.
Arteta's bold move to replace Ramsdale as the primary goalkeeper wasn't widely supported initially, facing opposition from portions of the fanbase and media alike. Although Raya didn't immediately secure a spot in the starting lineup, making his Premier League debut only in September, it became evident that he had become Arteta's preferred choice in goal once he did.
Despite Arteta's initial suggestion of a rotational approach, Raya emerged as the clear favorite. Arteta faced criticism from several media personalities, including David Seaman and Peter Schmeichel, and even Ramsdale's father contributed memorable remarks.
Arteta's decisive approach has ultimately paid off
As Raya has convincingly demonstrated his worth as an upgrade in the goalkeeper position. Notably, he has significantly improved Arsenal's ability to handle crosses into the box this season, leading the Premier League in claiming the highest percentage of crosses faced, with Ramsdale lagging behind in the previous season.
Raya also excels in the build-up phase, boasting superior pass completion rates compared to Ramsdale's last season. Additionally, his quick distribution through throws and goal-kicks consistently creates promising opportunities for his teammates.
While neither Raya nor Ramsdale can be considered among the world's top shot-stoppers, Raya's performance on Tuesday emphasized his reliability in making crucial saves when needed, settling any remaining doubts about his superiority over Ramsdale.
Written into Arsenal folklore
Before the penalty shootout commenced, Raya showcased his prowess by making crucial saves from Evanilson in the first half and Francisco Conceicao in the second. When the decisive moment arrived, he rose to the occasion, diving to his left to deny Wendell and Galeno's attempts from the penalty spot, and also blocking Marko Grujic's effort.
Raya expressed his elation at the final whistle, stating: "This means the world. These are the moments you play football for, and I feel fortunate to represent Arsenal, compete in the Champions League, and progress to the quarter-finals. We're going to savor this victory tonight."
For Arsenal, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time in 14 years marks a significant milestone, and securing a European knockout win at the Emirates, after five previous unsuccessful attempts, is a monumental achievement for Arteta. The fact that it was one of his criticized signings who played a pivotal role in the victory only adds to the sweetness of the triumph.
Arteta was right all along - but Arsenal can't rest
Arteta has been vindicated by the recent success of some of his contentious signings, following a period of scrutiny over his spending decisions in January. However, Arsenal cannot afford to become complacent in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Despite Havertz's resurgence in form, his earlier struggles raise doubts about his suitability as Arsenal's long-term attacking linchpin. The club has been linked with players like Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney, indicating a need for Arteta to prioritize acquiring a reliable focal point in attack at the end of the season.
Nevertheless, Arsenal finds themselves in a much improved position compared to January. Credit is due to Arteta and his recruitment team for this turnaround, as several of the previously criticized signings have proven their worth in recent weeks.
