LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Former England and Wrexham goalkeeper Ben Foster has strongly criticized Arsenal’s acquisition of David Raya, deeming it “pathetic,” while expressing his support for England goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
After prolonged negotiations, Raya was finally secured by Arsenal on an initial loan agreement with a price tag of £3 million ($3.8 million), and an option to purchase for £27 million ($34 million).
He is expected to compete for the starting goalkeeper position under Mikel Arteta, alongside Ramsdale, who faced criticism for his performance in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Fulham.
Foster, who has played for Wrexham and represented England, firmly stands by Ramsdale and argues that Raya’s signing was unnecessary.
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“I hate it, it’s pathetic. It’s something that didn’t need to happen, right. They did not need to sign David Raya,” Foster expressed on his YouTube channel.
Foster continued, “He’s [Ramsdale] been a top goalkeeper for two years. He’s on the verge of becoming England’s number one with Jordan Pickford, he’s right there. When he’s full of confidence and has a supportive manager, he’s as capable as anyone in the country.”
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been known for his intolerance towards goalkeeping errors, a factor that might raise concerns for Ramsdale.
Arteta has emphasized the importance of having competition within the squad, asserting that there is no definitive No. 1 for any position.
As Arsenal prepares to face Manchester United in a high-profile Premier League showdown on September 3 at the Emirates Stadium, the decision whether to continue supporting Ramsdale or to opt for Raya remains to be seen.