As Arsenal prepare for a crucial clash against Liverpool this Sunday, goalkeeper David Raya has come out swinging in defense of his team’s passionate celebrations. The Gunners have faced criticism from pundits for perceived immaturity in reveling too much after big wins, but Raya insists they won’t be changing their ways anytime soon.
Celebration Controversy Continues
The current Premier League leaders drew the ire of Sky Sports analysts Jamie Carragher and Gary Neville after captain Martin Ødegaard borrowed a photographer’s camera to snap pictures of jubilant teammates following a 3-1 victory over Liverpool in February. Carragher fumed that the players should “just get down the tunnel” instead of lingering on the pitch, while Neville chimed in about Arsenal’s “immaturity” in such moments.
Every win in the Premier League is important and I think we should celebrate every win the same. Of course, when we played them in the second half of the season it was a massive three points for us and that emotion for everybody to win against Liverpool is important and is incredible.
If we win on Sunday, it’s going to be the same emotions and same celebrations.
– David Raya, Arsenal goalkeeper
Raya’s comments make it clear that Arsenal have no intention of toning down their trademark exuberance, feeling every hard-fought league victory deserves a proper release of emotion. Manager Mikel Arteta has instilled a culture of passion and togetherness that the players clearly embrace.
Saliba Suspension Looms Large
However, the Gunners will have to make do without stalwart defender William Saliba this weekend, as the Frenchman serves a suspension for the red card he received against Bournemouth. It was Arsenal’s third sending-off of the young season, a recurring issue that has cost them valuable points.
Raya defended his teammate, arguing that Saliba was simply “trying to do the right thing” on the play in question and that the foul only deserved a yellow card. Nonetheless, Arsenal must now adapt to the 21-year-old’s absence in the heart of their backline.
Trossard Bounces Back
On a more positive note, winger Leandro Trossard looks to rebound from a couple of tough moments in recent matches. The Belgian’s misplaced pass led to Saliba’s red card against Bournemouth, and he had a penalty saved in the midweek Champions League win over Shakhtar Donetsk.
He has a great attitude, I don’t think that’s going to play on his mind. He’s a top professional and a top lad. He’s just got to focus on doing the right things and you can make mistakes, it’s part of football.
– David Raya on teammate Leandro Trossard
Title Challengers Abound
Looking ahead to Sunday’s showdown with Liverpool, Raya highlighted the quality and competitive spirit that Jurgen Klopp’s side have shown under their new manager. With seven wins from their first eight league matches, the Reds have surged up the table and pose a formidable threat to Arsenal’s title aspirations.
They’ve got a new manager and I think they’ve increased the level. They’re a top, top team. There are a lot of top teams in the Premier League now, not just Manchester City, Liverpool and us. Anybody can win the league.
– David Raya sizes up the opposition
With the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and others also hitting their stride and applying pressure, this promises to be one of the most hotly contested title races in recent memory. Every point will prove precious in the long run, making Arsenal’s commitment to leaving everything on the pitch each week all the more important.
Bring on the Celebration Police
So while the self-appointed celebration police may tut and frown from the sidelines, Raya and company remain undeterred. This Arsenal side plays with passion, fights for every ball, and savors every victory. Let the critics carp all they want – the Gunners will keep doing it their way.
The message is clear: if Arsenal triumph over Liverpool on Sunday, expect more joyous scenes, more borrowed cameras, more disapproving hot takes. For this tight-knit squad, the only approval they need is that of each other and their adoring fans. Bring on the next challenge – and the next celebration.
