Rafael van der Vaart criticized David Raya after Arsenal’s goalkeeper failed to stop Harry Kane’s penalty in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg clash. Despite Bukayo Saka giving Arsenal a lead at the Emirates in the 12th minute, former Gunner Serge Gnabry quickly equalized. Leroy Sane’s skill led to a penalty for Bayern Munich, which Kane converted.
Van der Vaart, who played for Spurs from 2010 to 2012, expressed disappointment at Raya’s mistake, questioning the Spanish goalkeeper’s abilities and his premature dive.
Raya ended the match without making any saves. Although Leandro Trossard’s goal secured a 2-2 draw for Arsenal, it wasn’t enough to secure their first knockout win against Bayern Munich since 2012-13.
Former England defender Matthew Upson also criticized Raya for his role in Bayern Munich’s opening goal. Raya’s decision to venture far off his line forced Gabriel Magalhaes into a pressured pass, intercepted by Bayern. Bayern capitalized on the turnover, releasing Serge Gnabry through on goal, and he scored despite Raya getting a touch on the ball.
Reflecting on the sequence, Upson highlighted Raya’s error and Arsenal’s defensive lapses.
Arsenal acquired Raya from Brentford last summer on an initial loan deal for £3 million, with an option to make the transfer permanent for £27 million. Known for his ball-playing abilities, Raya has displaced Aaron Ramsdale as Mikel Arteta’s preferred goalkeeper, making 33 appearances and keeping 16 clean sheets this season.
