David Raya got to make his first appearance of Euro 2024 on Monday night, with the Arsenal goalkeeper coming in for Spain’s final group game against Albania.
David Raya was left on the bench for the opening two games, with Unai Simon starting. But the winners of 1964, 2008 and 2012 already qualifying for the knockout stages, Luis de la Fuente rotated his options, and the Arsenal man was one of those to come into the side.
Once again, Albania proved to be tough opponents at this tournament, but Ferran Torres was able to score the only goal to ensure that La Roja qualified with a perfect record.
Spain were much thankful for Raya however, with Whoscored showing that he made four saves during the victory.
Spanish media discuss David Raya after win against Albania
It seems that the Spanish media believe that Raya has left de la Fuente with some real food for thought ahead of the knockout stages.
Simon has had a couple of shaky moments in the tournament, and it seems that some would have few complaints if the Arsenal star kept his place for the next round.
“It will be difficult for De la Fuente to choose a goalkeeper. He was used hard to stop Asllani on the two most dangerous occasions in Albania. He closed his great performance by blocking a shot from Broja,” wrote La Vanguardia, as they handed him a 9/10 rating.
“The Arsenal goalkeeper made three stops of great merit, he took advantage of Luis de la Fuente’s opportunity to show that he can compete with Unai Simón. In addition, he demonstrated his good game with his feet,” said El Desmarque, as they also opted for a 9/10 rating.
A turning point for Arsenal star
This could perhaps be a turning point in Raya’s international career, if de la Fuente decides to put his faith in him for the knockout stages.
The 28-year-old silenced a lot of his critics after a tough start to life at Arsenal. Raya still made a couple of mistakes – most notably in the North London derby – but he did brilliantly to end the debate over whether he should be number one ahead of Aaron Ramsdale.
It would be a gamble to drop Simon, with the Athletic star the most experienced goalkeeper in the squad on the international stage by some distance. But clearly, some believe Raya has done his chances of keeping his spot no harm at all.