Why David Raya cannot play in Arsenal vs Brentford

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David Raya is not allowed to take part today when Arsenal welcome Brentford to the Emirates Stadium.

Aaron Ramsdale is set to make just his sixth Premier League start of the season in the Spaniard’s absence.

So, why is David Raya not allowed to play for Arsenal today? Let’s take a look…

Why David Raya cannot play in Arsenal vs Brentford

Well – as you may already know – the Arsenal No.22 is actually on loan from Brentford.

Arsenal paid £3m to sign Raya on loan for the 2023/24 campaign ahead of a permanent £27m transfer this summer.

It means – for now – the Spain international is technically still owned by Brentford, with loanees unable to play against their parent clubs in the Premier League.

As aforesaid, it means Ramsdale is set to step in between the sticks – in what could be his final appearance for Arsenal ahead of a potential summer exit.

The England international is more than capable of delivering for Mikel Arteta – as we saw last season when he earned a spot in the PFA Team of the Year.

However, losing Raya for such a crucial game in the Premier League title race is far from ideal, given how impressively the 28-year-old has performed this season.

The Spaniard has shone

Despite a wobbly start to life at Arsenal – perhaps compounded by the media’s focus on Ramsdale being dropped – Raya has bounced back tremendously.

The £85,000-a-week glovesman has kept nine clean sheets in 22 Premier League appearances this season, conceding just 19 goals as Arsenal boast the best defensive record in England’s top-flight.

Ian Wright believes Arteta’s decision to change his No.1 has since been proven correct, despite plenty of backlash at the start of the campaign.

Hopefully, Ramsdale can keep Brentford out in Raya’s absence, before the Barcelona-born goalkeeper resumes his duties in Tuesday’s crucial UEFA Champions League Round of 16 clash against Porto.

David Raya profile

Full name: David Raya Martín

Age: 28

Height: 6ft (1.83m)

Date of birth: 15th September 1995

Place of birth: Barcelona

Nationality: Spain

Club: Brentford (on loan at Arsenal – set to join permanently July 1st)

Position: Goalkeeper

Salary: £85,000-a-week