David Raya Admits La Liga Return Remains a Long-Term Ambition
David Raya has admitted he wants to play in La Liga one day, though the Arsenal goalkeeper insists he is happy in north London for now.
The Spain international is contracted to Arsenal until summer 2028, leaving the club in a strong position over any future move. Raya, born in Barcelona, said a return to Spanish football remains an ambition rather than an immediate plan.
Quick facts
- Raya joined Arsenal from Brentford in 2023.
- He has made 114 appearances, recorded 52 clean sheets and let in 89 goals for the Gunners.
- Arsenal are second in the Premier League on 18 points, three behind Manchester City.
- They opened their Champions League campaign with wins over Napoli and Lille.
- Next up in Europe is a demanding away fixture against Bayern Munich.
Raya described La Liga as a highly competitive competition and said he would love to represent a Spanish club in the future. “I’m Spanish and I would like that experience, certainly,” he said, while stressing that he remains content at Arsenal.
Since arriving from Brentford, the 2023 signing has become one of Mikel Arteta’s most dependable players. His latest campaign brought a Premier League title and Community Shield, alongside runs to the Champions League and Carabao Cup finals.
His form also earned him a third successive Premier League Golden Glove. Raya believes the trophy haul and his influence across Arsenal’s major competitions made it the finest season of his career.
There was one frustration during the summer. Raya was part of Spain’s World Cup-winning squad but did not play a minute at the tournament, despite describing the year as close to perfect.
Arsenal have started their European group campaign with a 1-0 win against Napoli followed by a 3-0 victory over Lille. In the league, they sit three points behind leaders Manchester City after collecting 18 points.
Raya’s target now is clear: more silverware. He said Arsenal want to be recognised among the leading contenders and hope to go one step further in Europe by winning the Champions League, although he acknowledged there is a long road ahead before that can happen.
