S Poddar
Wednesday’s hard-fought 2-1 victory against Girona for Arsenal on Wednesday night arrived with a twist that can hold big significance as they look towards their big match against Manchester City in the Premier League. Having managed a thrilling comeback through strikes from Jorginho and a debut for teenager Ethan Nwaneri, what worried Gunners fans were left behind: no Aubameyang.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, brought several changes to his first XI for the Champions League game in an attempt to rotate the team ahead of Sunday’s showpiece match against Manchester City. But resting a few for Sunday’s match has not been the only reason. But it seems Arteta omitted David Raya from the squad due to injury.
Initially, it was thought that Raya had been given a rest to keep him fresh for the weekend. However, Arteta clarified post the game that the Spanish shot-stopper was not available due to fitness issues. “Yeah, he’s not fit,” Arteta stated bluntly. “Apart from that, if there is a player who deserves a chance, then it’s Neto.”
Brazilian goalkeeper Neto started as Raya made way, first time in this season with the club since last summer, from Bournemouth with a season long loan. Being 35 he became Arsenal oldest debutant after over a hundred years, at least on one day, so far, while he put on a very satisfactory performance in front of goal so that his colleagues could be relaxed and make winning easier, with questions still regarding whether Raya will be in shape for a match against Manchester City.
Arteta’s post-match comments did little to ease concerns. “He certainly could not play, he is injured, and that is it,” the manager said, leaving fans to speculate about the severity of Raya’s condition. With just days to go before the crucial Premier League clash, the uncertainty surrounding Raya’s availability is far from ideal for Arsenal.
Raya has been a regular feature in Arsenal’s team this season, playing a key role in their defensive solidity. His absence would be a huge loss, especially against a team of Manchester City’s quality. If Raya is not fit to play, Neto will likely start in goal, with young Tommy Setford providing cover from the bench.
This was not the worst possible time for Arsenal to experience such an injury blow: Sunday hosts one of the crucial games in the title race against Manchester City. With Liverpool surging ahead, Arsenal cannot afford to drop points if it is to keep championship aspirations alive. It is enough to make an already daunting task facing City even more challenging as they arrive without their first-choice goalkeeper.
Despite the injury scare, there was much to like from Arsenal’s performance against Girona. The team fought back well after going behind in the match. Arnaut Danjuma put the hosts ahead early on. Jorginho equalized, and Nwaneri scored an absolute stunner to seal the win. There was much to like about the 17-year-old Nwaneri, especially in his composure and skill.
However, today the game revolves around the encounter on the field at the Emirates Stadium. Manchester City, led by Pep Guardiola, are always a thorn in the side, and Arsenal will have to be on their game to get an honourable positive outcome. Furthermore, Raya’s potential absence only slightly throws things off the controlled direction of this match but will depend more on Arteta hoping that his squad rises to the challenge.
For Neto, the chance to start against Manchester City would be a defining moment in his career. Although he is not as familiar with Arsenal’s system as Raya, his experience and composure could be crucial. The Brazilian has waited patiently for his chance, and now he may be called upon to deliver on one of the biggest stages in football.
As the countdown for Sunday’s match continues, Arsenal fans anxiously await updates on Raya’s condition. This season, goalkeeper has been a bedrock of this team that has ensured their success, and its absence might swing the balance in City’s favor. On the other hand, if there is one thing Arteta has instilled in his squad is the belief that they could overcome adversity.
The coming days will be very important for Arsenal as they prepare for what may be a season-defining match. Whether Raya is fit to play or Neto steps into the spotlight, the Gunners will need to dig deep to keep their title hopes alive. One thing is certain: the Emirates Stadium will be buzzing with anticipation as two of the Premier League’s heavyweights go head-to-head in a clash that could shape the destiny of the season.
