Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta sheds light over David Raya's availability for crucial clash against Leicester

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta sheds light over David Raya's availability for crucial clash against Leicester

Eric Munene 17:00 - 27.09.2024

Arsenal could play with their new goalkeeper after David Raya becoming a doubt after his minor thigh injury

During the closing stages of Manchester City's dramatic 2-2 deaw againt Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium last Sunday, David Raya went down clutching his thigh, indicating some sense of discomfort.

In a pre-match update ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Leicester City, Mikel Arteta provided insights into the status of goalkeeper David Raya, who remains a doubt due to a thigh injury.

Raya missed the Gunners’ recent Carabao Cup victory over Bolton, prompting speculation about who will take the starting role this weekend.

Arteta confirmed that the team is still assessing Raya’s condition, stating, "We have to wait another 24 hours to see if it is looking good or not. It’s not about risk; it’s about a player being fit or available. We will make a decision tomorrow."

With Raya's fitness in question, summer signing Neto, who joined Arsenal on loan from Bournemouth, is poised to make his Premier League debut if Raya is sidelined.

Neto’s arrival was strategically timed to bolster Arsenal’s goalkeeping options, and Arteta hinted that the Brazilian could be called upon should Raya not recover in time.

Neto has been preparing for this moment since his arrival on transfer deadline day, and with Raya’s uncertain status, he might finally get the chance to showcase his skills on the Premier League stage.

In a further boost for Arsenal, defender Jurrien Timber has returned to training and could also feature against Leicester.

Arteta expressed optimism about Ben White’s availability, despite the right-back missing recent matches due to fitness concerns.