Late winner sees Arsenal extend lead in Premier League title race as goalkeeper controversy persists
Arsenal's thrilling last-minute goal extends their Premier League lead, but the goalkeeper controversy continues to overshadow their otherwise flawless season
Arsenal is currently in a great position, with a young and talented team that is eager to win the club's first Premier League title since 2004. Manager Mikel Arteta appears to have addressed the team's weaknesses and the majority of fans are now trusting the process.
The dramatic 4-3 win against Luton Town on Tuesday showcased the new-look Arsenal, with the Gunners now five points clear at the top of the table.
The Premier League has signed a record domestic TV deal with Sky, TNT and the BBC.
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Premier League secures an $8.45 billion TV deal amidst an ongoing controversial season that continues to captivate. Declan Rice's 97th-minute headed winner sealed the victory, provoking wild celebrations from both players and fans.
The Arsenal of the past might have lost a match like this, as Luton's Kenilworth Road is a daunting place for visiting players. The stands may be small, but the fans are close to the pitch and create an intense atmosphere that Luton's players often thrive in. Despite the challenge, most of Arsenal's players showed resilience and the winning mentality required of champions.
The last-gasp winner, though, does mask an obvious issue for Arsenal, a problem which is largely of its own making.
A dilemma in goal
Goalkeeper David Raya joined the club at the beginning of the season, following an impressive stint at Brentford. The signing caused a stir in the soccer world, as it added competition for Aaron Ramsdale, who was already the team's No. 1 goalkeeper at Arsenal.
The England international was adored by fans and appeared to be a key player in the club's promising new chapter. Despite Ramsdale's solid performance, Arteta chose to replace him with Raya as the league's first-choice goalkeeper earlier this season. So far, the decision has not proven successful.
Mikel Arteta celebrates the winning goal against Luton Town on Tuesday.
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Rayas form has been questionable at best. Hes made a multitude of mistakes already and was at fault for two goals against Luton on Tuesday.
He was unable to stop Luton's second goal of the night, missing the opportunity to catch a corner kick before Elijah Adebayo headed the ball into the open net. Then, the Spaniard let Ross Barkley's shot slip under his body as the hosts took the lead in the second half.
Liverpool, England - December 3: Trent Alexander-Arnold celebrates after scoring Liverpool's fourth goal during the Premier League match against Fulham at Anfield. (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praises remarkable goals in unforgettable game. Luckily, Kai Havertz's equalizer and Rices' winning goal saved the day for Raya, avoiding added pressure on him and Arteta.
There is no question about Rayas abilities. He performed exceptionally at Brentford and attracted attention from numerous top clubs before moving to the Emirates. He is part of a new generation of goalkeepers who are very comfortable playing with the ball at their feet - a skill that is increasingly crucial in today's game.
However, Arteta's management of the goalkeeper position and his dismissive responses to media inquiries have added pressure on both Raya and his backup.
Despite being surprised by the decision, Ramsdale has publicly maintained a positive attitude after being dropped from the starting lineup. He appears to have a good relationship with Raya and prioritizes the manager's vision over his own personal interests. However, when asked to stand in for the ineligible Raya against Brentford last month, the Englishman seemed to lack confidence and made mistakes that could have led to a goal.
Arteta faces a clear dilemma with both goalkeepers underperforming and feeling the pressure, highlighting an apparent weakness in a department that was expected to be solid.
David Raya has struggled for form since being the clear first-choice goalkeeper at Arsenal this season.
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The manager's refusal to provide a substantial response when questioned about Raya's performance after the game against Luton may indicate the extent of his struggle with the decision. "I am pleased with the team," Arterta awkwardly stated when queried by Amazon Prime about Raya.
"I have spoken with all of them and they are all jumping, they are so happy. Im a really happy manager today."
Is this finally the year?
Apart from the goalkeeper debate, Arteta certainly has reason to be delighted as a manager. His other summer signing, Rice, has been outstanding for Arsenal's midfield. Despite having a quieter night against Luton, the Englishman brought a much-needed steeliness to the team that has been lacking for years.
The last-minute goal, and the celebrations that followed, demonstrated the unity of the Arsenal team and their determination to win the league title ahead of rivals like Manchester City and Liverpool. While some doubt their ability to maintain their form, it's understandable given past disappointments, such as finishing behind Manchester City last season despite being in the lead.
"We feel that as a group, we have gained valuable insights," Rice told Amazon Prime when asked about his teams chances for the title.
"This year, there are many strong teams in the league and anything is possible. Our focus is solely on ourselves, not concerning ourselves with other teams."
Arsenal will be up against strong competition in its next three Premier League matches. The team will first face Aston Villa on the road, followed by a home match against Brighton and a trip to play against Liverpool. If Arsenal can navigate through these matches successfully, it will prove to even more people that this could be the year they silence their critics.
