David Raya starts on the bench for Arsenal within the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City today with Kepa Arrizabalaga given the nod.
The previous Chelsea goalkeeper has began all five of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup matches this season, also featuring within the FA Cup with Arteta rotating his shot stoppers in cup competitions.
Raya has been having fun with a sublime season for the Gunners, playing a central role in his side’s march towards the Premier League title.
Performances during the last week against Everton and Bayer Leverkusen served to underline just how essential he has been this season with the previous Brentford star heading in the right direction to win the Golden Gloves award.
But Arteta has rewarded Kepa for his high quality form on this competition with a starting role today at Wembley.
Earlier this week, former Arsenal star Paul Merson backed the choice to stick to Kepa.
‘The massive decision that Arsenal must make is whether or not they go together with Kepa Arrizabalaga or David Raya in goal,’ Merson told Sportskeeda.
Your football fix
Metro‘s Head of Sport James Goldman delivers punchy evaluation, transfer talk and his tackle the week’s biggest stories direct to your inbox every week.
Join here, it’s an open goal.
‘Kepa has been first-choice within the Carabao Cup, and I feel they need to stick to him. It’s only fair because he played well and got you to this stage.
‘But I need to admit, Raya is world-class. The saves he made against Everton and Leverkusen were absolutely phenomenal.
‘Nevertheless, if I were the manager, I might still keep on with my principles and select Kepa because the keeper for the ultimate. He’s not let the team down on this competition and deserves to begin.’
MORE: Why Marc Guehi will not be playing for Man City against Arsenal in Carabao Cup final
MORE: Mikel Arteta suggests Man City clash about greater than just Carabao Cup
MORE: Arsenal star sends clear message to Napoli and Inter Milan amid transfer rumours