Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya reveals near move to German giants but happy to stay in London.
Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper David Raya has revealed that he came very close to joining Bayern Munich, but he is relieved the move never materialized.
Raya, who initially joined Arsenal on loan from Brighton in 2023 before making the deal permanent ahead of the 2024/2025 season, has been a mainstay between the posts as the Gunners push for their first Premier League title since 2004.
“I joined Arsenal obviously because of Mikel Arteta, the philosophy, and the project that was there. Arsenal was rising. I just wanted to make a big step in my career coming from Brentford and I think Arsenal was the best team to do it,” Raya said on Arsenal News Channel on X.
Reflecting on the Bayern Munich link, Raya added:
“I was very, very close to joining Bayern Munich, but luckily it didn’t happen and Arsenal in the end made the bid and I came here.”
The Spaniard praised Arsenal’s vision for building a young, ambitious squad, saying it made the move the best choice for his career.
Raya now has the chance to win his first major trophy with Arsenal when they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final this Sunday, a match that could cement his growing reputation at the club.
“Arsenal was right in the middle of everything at the right time. I’m really happy it worked out the way it did.”
