Arteta might have a few hard decisions to make when choosing his upcoming Arsenal squad as one of his key men could be out of contention. With the Olympics coming up, players are going to have to leave their domestic clubs to play for their respective countries.
Although this is just part of the game for Olympic qualifiers, competitions, World Cups, and international friendlies, it still leaves coaches with fewer selection options in crucial domestic games.
And it is especially troubling if one of the main players called up for their side’s Olympic squad is in such a pivotal position, like a goalkeeper.
Arsenal GK Could Be Unavailable for Premier League
Mikel Arteta has been nominated for the Premier League Manager of the Month Award for the seventh time this season 👏
You can vote for him below! 🗳️
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) May 2, 2024
Mikel Arteta has a real dilemma on his hands if his Number One is not going to be on the squad list for their upcoming game. Arsenal FC’s man between the posts, David Raya, was chosen for Spain’s Olympic squad in Paris earlier this week.
David Raya is a veteran goalkeeper who has proven his worth for the Gunners time and time again this season. The talented Spaniard has been called up to his country’s squad so they can attempt to medal, or win the gold, for the first time in decades.
Despite Raya being at the ‘older end’ of the age spectrum in terms of professional and international football, goalkeepers can usually play a few more years than field players due to the physical demands on their bodies. The Spanish manager, Santi Denia, has noted that he is more willing to use his over-age slots as one of the goalkeepers instead of a defender, midfielder, or attacker.
One of the main reasons why the Spain manager is willing to extend an offer to Raya is that he sees the benefits of bringing in more experienced veterans who can help the younger players. Giving young players too many minutes at a young age, like Pedri, can lead to burnout and fatigue.
But, one of the main roadblocks that stand in the way of Raya representing Spain at the Olympics is a veto from Arteta at Arsenal FC. Since Arsenal is in the English Premier League and not in the Spanish domestic league, the club is not officially obligated to allow Raya to participate in the Olympic qualifiers.
If Arsenal allows Raya to join his Spanish squad for the important games, this means that he would have an extremely short break before the new PL season begins in August. Plus, he would have a month of playing at the Euros and miss pre-season at Arsenal training camp.
Also Read: Talented German Midfielder Silences Arsenal Critics During 2024
What is Next for Arsenal FC
What can we expect from Arsenal FC to end the 2023-2024 Premier League season and begin the following year? Although Arteta and his squad have undergone devastating losses and tough results, they are currently in an exciting title race that comes down to the last day of the season.
Arsenal are currently in first place in the Premier League, having amassed 80 points in 35 games played. Unfortunately, Manchester City is right on their tail with 79 points in one fewer game. This means if Man City win the rest of their matches, they automatically win. However, if they drop points with a loss or a draw, this gives Arsenal FC the chance to win the rest of their games and clinch the title.
Liverpool was in contention for first place until they imploded a few weeks ago. They stand in third place with 75 points in 35 games. If City and Arsenal both flop, that opens the door for the Merseyside team to claim first or second place.
The title race is well and truly on for Arteta and his squad.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
