SLAVIA PRAGUE 1-2 ARSENAL: David Raya was the trump card for the Gunners in the Czech Republic as they secured a vital three Champions League points away at the Fortuna Arena.
David Ray insists Arsenal must keep the pain of last season’s Champions League final “in our veins” if they are to be continental kings this term.
The Spaniard, still scarred after May’s penalty kick against PSG in Budapest, believes the Gunners are now capable of better progress in Europe.
He said after Wednesday’s hard-fought victory over Slavia Prague: “I think he will never be out of the system.
“I think it’s something that will live with us – and hopefully we can win it to take the Champions League away from us. But it’s got to be in our veins. It’s got to be on us to do it better this year.”
Raya initially bemoaned Arsenal’s lack of attacking composure as Mikel Arteta’s lackluster Premier League winners allowed Slavia to claw their way back into contention.
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However, he also believes Victor Gyokeres deserves huge personal credit for his instrumental display after scoring and assisting Noni Madueke’s opener.
Gyokeres has now scored eight goals (five goals, three assists) in his last 10 starts for the Gunners in all competitions.
“Obviously, it’s not easy to play and not play the minutes you want,” Raya said. “But we have a very, very good team – where everybody is now – and this performance will be really good for him. It will give him a lot of confidence. We know how good he is in these kinds of games and this kind of football. We are really happy for him.”
Moreover, the victory would not have been possible without Raya. Although the 31-year-old missed out on the Yashin Cup to international team-mate Unai Simon, many believe he is now the best goalkeeper in the world.
His save to deny Oskar Kubiak, whose header hit the post and away, was crucial.
Raya continued: “It’s not just me. As I always say, the 11 defend very well and don’t give too many chances. At the end of the day it’s a team effort. It’s a team effort to keep as many clean sheets as we can because it makes it easier for us to win games.
“Believing is really important, but it’s hard work [is, too]. I work hard during the week to help the team as much as possible on nights like this. It’s just my belief in myself and the belief of the staff – the goalie coach – in me and the team.
“It gives you that extra edge and motivation to keep it up every week and the consistency I’ve played with over the years is a big factor for us.”
Another key brick is about to be placed in Arsenal’s Great Wall. William Saliba is back among the subs after a long layoff and Raya couldn’t be happier – even if Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes have looked after their jobs impeccably in the Frenchman’s absence.
Raya concluded: “I was delighted to see him training with us. I gave him a big hug before training. I’m delighted for him. It wasn’t an easy injury – and he overcame it last season. We’re delighted to have him back.”