Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has admitted he dreams of playing in Spain someday, while stressing that he is settled and content with the Premier League champions.
Speaking to Spanish daily Marca on Wednesday, the 31-year-old Spain international did not rule out an eventual return to his home country. Raya is tied to Arsenal until June 2028 and has played all of his professional football in England since leaving Spain as a teenager.
“I would love to try out LaLiga,” he said. He added that he is happy at Arsenal for now but would like to experience Spanish football at some stage, describing the league as highly competitive. “I’m Spanish,” he said, making clear that a spell at a club back home appeals to him.
Born in Barcelona, Raya joined Arsenal from Brentford, first on a loan deal in 2023 before the move became permanent. He has since grown into one of the best goalkeepers in Europe. Last season he helped the Gunners claim the Premier League title, won the Golden Glove for the third year running, and played his part in runs deep into the Champions League and the domestic cup competitions.
He was also part of the Spain squad that lifted the World Cup this summer, although he did not get any minutes on the pitch.
Looking back on the season, Raya called it his best so far and said the only thing missing was playing at the World Cup. He pointed out that he has got better every year since arriving at Arsenal and hopes the upward trend continues.
His ambitions for the club remain high. Raya said the aim is to win every competition and to be seen as the team to beat. After falling short in Europe, he hopes Arsenal can go one better this term by winning the Champions League, though he accepts there is plenty of work still to do.
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