David Raya

David Raya Martín is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Arsenal and the Spain national team.

David Raya Martín is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for Arsenal and the Spain national team. Born in Barcelona, he developed in Spain before moving to England as a teenager and later established himself in the Premier League with Brentford and Arsenal.

Early life and youth career

David Raya was born in Barcelona to Spanish parents. He began his football development at UE Cornellà in Spain. In 2012, at the age of 16, Raya moved to England to join the academy of Blackburn Rovers.

Club career

Raya made his senior debut for Blackburn Rovers in 2014. He subsequently had a loan spell at Southport before joining Brentford in 2019. Raya helped Brentford gain promotion to the Premier League in 2021. He joined Arsenal on loan in August 2023, and the move was made permanent in July 2024. In the 2023–24 season, Raya won the Premier League Golden Glove after keeping 16 clean sheets.

International career

Raya made his senior debut for Spain in March 2022. He was selected for the Spain squad at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and was part of the squad that won UEFA Euro 2024.

Style of play

Raya is described as a goalkeeper noted for his distribution, shot-stopping, and command of crosses. Media and club profiles highlight his calmness under pressure, ability to command the penalty area, and a strong penalty-saving record.