Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his understanding of Aaron Ramsdale's frustration after the latter was replaced in goal by goalkeeper Raya in Arsenal's last two games. Raya, who joined the Londoners in the summer transfer window, made his debut against Everton last weekend and started in Arsenal's 4-0 win over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League.
Coach Arteta has expressed that he understands the difficult situation for his goalkeepers, while he has not yet decided who will be the starting goalkeeper in the difficult duel against Tottenham on Sunday:
"I suffer and care a lot about all the players who don't play, but that's the game. My job is to make decisions in the best possible way for the team. I understand his (Ramsdale's) frustration and it's difficult for all the players. He has been very supportive of the team and that is what I expect from everyone. When you're on the court it's someone else who's not playing, so it works both ways. So far, he's been pretty well behaved."
Arteta added:
"This is a difficult situation, and it is the same with other players. Aaron has an incredible character, he has quite a charismatic aura and we all know it. We have to face it, but I have to prepare a formation for the matches…”
Ramsdale had started 52 consecutive games for Arsenal before Ray's arrival at the club. Arteta was criticized for approaching the goalkeeper, and many sports analysts called it unnecessary, and potentially dangerous to the spirit of the group at Arsenal. However, the Spanish coach played down the importance of Raya's arrival, saying that there will be rotation between Ramsdale and Raya throughout the season.
