Goalkeeper David Raya believes that the Premier League title last season helped Arsenal relieve pressure and gain more confidence to play more proactive and effective football.
After many consecutive years of approaching but not being able to win the championship, Arsenal finally won the Premier League title last season. Raya admitted that the whole team felt relieved after this achievement. According to the Spanish goalkeeper, the title helps Arsenal enter the new season with a more comfortable mentality.
Of course, winning the championship after so many years, especially when we have been very close to victory many times, brings relief and more confidence" - Raya shared.
Arsenal started the new season with 3 consecutive wins and defeated Manchester City in the English Super Cup match. The performance against Chelsea also received many compliments when Arsenal showed a more proactive and diverse playing style.
After 3 matches, especially the victory against Man City in the English Super Cup and the way we performed, it has brought more motivation and confidence to play the way we want.
We know we can beat any opponent in this tournament. But last season has passed. We have to focus on the current season, continue to improve, be ourselves and bring joy to the fans. That is the most important thing" - Raya said.
Despite a perfect start, the "Gunners" still have points to improve. Raya conceded the first goal of the season when Morgan Rogers scored for Chelsea in just 77 seconds, ending the Spanish goalkeeper's clean sheet streak.
I think there are things we need to improve in that conceded goal. The whole team needs to defend better, especially from the beginning of the match. I am disappointed to concede, but the important thing is how we reacted afterwards and the performance of the whole team" - Raya commented.
The Arsenal goalkeeper also appreciates the depth of the squad, especially when Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard returned after being out for most of last season due to injuries.
I think both are very good players, but not just them. I'm talking about the entire squad, not just the 11 starters but also the players on the bench and those who are not registered to play. Everyone will be very important throughout the season" - the Arsenal goalkeeper shared.
According to Raya, that depth will help Arsenal maintain competitiveness in many arenas. After losing to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final last season, the "Gunners" will be determined to win the championship this season. They will start a new campaign with a away game at Napoli's stadium.
Playing in the Champions League is really special. We have progressed year by year, especially after many years of not being in this tournament. Since returning, we have enjoyed the Champions League. This is the biggest club-level tournament we can participate in," Raya added.
