Arsenal: David Raya explains how summer spending has impacted trophy push — and the goalkeeper insists the Gunners’ “incredible depth” could be the key difference this season.
After spending around £250million on eight new signings, Arsenal have made a blistering start to the campaign. Mikel Arteta’s side sit top of the Premier League and boast a perfect Champions League record, with a 4-0 thrashing of Atletico Madrid their latest statement of intent.
Speaking after the victory, Raya said the quality and versatility of Arsenal’s squad have taken competition to another level.
Raya: “Squad depth is incredible”
“The depth of the squad is incredible. We have a lot of players that can play in two, three, four different positions… that gives you an extra level in training and in games because if you’re not at it every day, you can lose your spot in a fraction of a second.” — David Raya
The Spanish keeper, on loan from Brentford, highlighted the impact of new arrivals such as Merino and the flexibility Arteta now enjoys across the pitch. He believes the increased competition has sharpened focus in training and created a “winning culture” that filters through every position.
Arsenal’s defensive strength driving success
Raya also praised the team’s collective work without the ball. Arsenal have conceded just three goals in their first 12 matches, the fewest at this stage in the club’s 138-year history. Tuesday’s clean sheet against Atletico was their ninth of the season — another testament to their organisation and intensity.
“It’s a team effort from the striker to the goalie. Everyone doesn’t want to give anything away. If we intercept the ball early, that means we can counter quickly. Clean sheets are as important as goals.” — David Raya
| Stat (2025/26) | Arsenal |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 12 |
| Goals Conceded | 3 |
| Clean Sheets | 9 |
| Win Percentage | 83% |
| Current Position | 1st (Premier League) |
source: sofascore match data – 22 October 2025
The defensive resilience has laid the foundation for Arsenal’s charge on two fronts. Raya emphasised that maintaining focus and competitiveness in every session is now the squad’s hallmark.
Our View
In our view, Arsenal’s transformation this season stems as much from culture as from quality. Arteta’s willingness to rotate heavily and trust squad depth has created a balanced, ruthless team that looks built for a long campaign. Raya’s words echo the confidence of a side comfortable under pressure and united behind a clear vision.
With players like Merino, Havertz and Timber adapting seamlessly, Arsenal now resemble the deep, flexible machine Arteta envisioned years ago — capable of grinding out 1-0 wins or delivering dominant European performances.
Analyst Verdict
Footballplace analyst John William believes Arsenal’s squad evolution is the most complete in England. “I think this is the deepest Arsenal squad since the Invincibles,” he said. “Arteta’s been smart — he hasn’t just added talent, he’s added tactical flexibility. Raya’s presence only strengthens the mindset across the back line.”
In my view, the mentality shift is what sets this Arsenal apart. The hunger to fight for every place mirrors elite dressing rooms — and that’s usually how title winners are built.
Key Insights
- David Raya says Arsenal’s new signings have raised standards in training.
- Arsenal have conceded just three goals in 12 matches, keeping nine clean sheets.
- Raya highlights squad versatility as a key strength under Mikel Arteta.
- Competition for places is driving performance levels across all positions.
- Arsenal are top of the Premier League and unbeaten in Europe.
What’s Next
Arsenal will be playing at home against Crystal Palace on 26 October before facing Brighton in the Carabao Cup on 29 October. With confidence high and depth on display, Arteta’s men look well placed to sustain their dual title ambitions.
👉 Can Arsenal’s new depth finally deliver both Premier League and European glory this season?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 22 Oct 2025 13:26
I mean, is there 1 team that can beat them in the Champions League over 2 rounds? I dont see anyone coming close to this Arsenal as a team and as a squad.
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