Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has discussed his experience of losing his status as Arsenal’s No. 1 goalkeeper to David Raya, who Arsenal acquired from Brentford in August on an initial loan.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Ramsdale expressed his inner turmoil and suffering as he continues to remain on the bench, despite playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s near-title triumph last season.
He stated, “There might be a day when he (David Raya) is down, and even though I’m suffering and hurting from not playing, I have to stand up and be prepared to support him.”
While Ramsdale commenced the season ahead of Raya, Arsenal’s head coach, Mikel Arteta, has only selected Ramsdale once since the September international break, which was against Brentford in the Carabao Cup.
The situation is equally challenging for the 25-year-old at the international level, as he was overlooked by England manager Gareth Southgate in their 1-0 win over Australia in a friendly match on Friday, October 13, 2023.
Ramsdale remarked, “Because it’s one of the first times it’s happened in this situation, it has been challenging. There are moments when you’re doing the right thing, but it seems like the wrong thing, and if you don’t do it, it’s still the wrong thing. It’s a double-edged sword.”
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Nevertheless, Ramsdale emphasized that there is no animosity between him and Raya, despite his rival taking over the starting role.
In his words, they support each other professionally and remain focused on helping each other improve.
He stated, “We work together professionally and harmoniously. We challenge each other during training, and there are days when I come in feeling low due to the situation, and he lifts me up.”
Arsenal’s next match is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2023, when they face Chelsea in a highly anticipated Premier League London Derby. It is expected that Raya will be given the nod ahead of Ramsdale.
