Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised Aaron Ramsdale for his exceptional character despite losing his starting position to David Raya.
Arsenal’s gaffer, Mikel Arteta, has showered praise on Aaron Ramsdale, lauding his exceptional character in the face of losing his starting spot to David Raya. Ramsdale had been the Gunners’ undisputed No. 1 since his arrival in 2021, but with Raya’s loan move from Brentford this summer, the Spaniard has taken the reins in recent Champions League and Premier League fixtures.
In a somewhat unexpected turn of events, Ramsdale was given a rare opportunity to start in the Carabao Cup clash against Brentford. The English international didn’t disappoint, orchestrating a clean sheet that secured Arsenal’s place in the fourth round with a 1-0 victory. Arteta couldn’t have been more impressed with Ramsdale’s attitude throughout this transition, stating,
“He’s been exceptional around the place with the situation. Like everybody,” he said.
Regarding Ramsdale’s quality, Arteta emphasized his role in signing the player amidst initial doubts, showing unwavering confidence in his abilities. The Arsenal manager also highlighted the significance of every player contributing to the team, especially in the present moment.
“We love him more for sure. We have him every day. We know him, we know his character and we are really happy to have him.
“I don’t think I’m the one to answer the question about Aaron Ramsdale’s quality because I’m the one who signed him when everyone else was questioning that decision. So I don’t think I’m the one to answer that question.
“Every player is very important. We have a lot of injuries as well and players who contributed. But in football it’s about now, it’s about the moment.
“Today he (Ramsdale) had the opportunity to play and he played a really big game.
Arteta acknowledged the strong performances of several other players in the Carabao Cup fixture, including Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Jorgi, Reiss, Emile Smith Rowe, and Charles Sagoe Jr. Notably, Sagoe Jr., an academy player, had a standout day.
“I think Jakub [Kiwior] played really well, [Takehiro] Tomiyasu too, Jorgi after what happened three days ago he had a really big game, Reiss did too, he hasn’t started many games and scored the goal. Same with Emile [Smith Rowe].
“And for sure Charles [Sagoe Jr], it was a great day for him. It’s great to have an academy player with us and a lot of positives to take and as always a lot of things to improve as well.”
Looking ahead, Arsenal is set to face West Ham in the next round of the EFL Cup competition, with fans eagerly anticipating more standout performances from their squad.