David Raya described his World Cup experience as a dream, reflecting on a whirlwind year that saw him establish himself at Arsenal. The goalkeeper, who joined the north London club ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, played a key role in Spain's run to the tournament's latter stages.
A dream come true
For Raya, pulling on the Spain shirt on the biggest stage was the culmination of years of work. He called the experience a dream, a sentiment that resonates with any footballer who grows up imagining that moment. The 28-year-old didn't just make the squad; he contributed to a team that reached the quarter-finals before falling to Morocco on penalties.
Season at Arsenal
That World Cup high came after a successful year at Arsenal. Raya joined from Brentford in a deal that included an option to buy, and he quickly became Mikel Arteta's first-choice goalkeeper. His shot-stopping and composure on the ball helped Arsenal push Manchester City for the Premier League title until the final weeks. The club secured a return to the Champions League, and Raya's performances earned him a spot in Spain's national team plans.
Now, with the World Cup behind him, Raya will look to build on that momentum. Arsenal are set to begin pre-season training in July, and the Spaniard will be eager to carry his international form into the new campaign.
