UMVA has learned that Arsenal’s star goalkeeper David Raya found himself on the bench as Spain opened their World Cup campaign against Cape Verde.
Raya, fresh from a dazzling Premier League title run where he kept 20 clean sheets and claimed a third straight Golden Glove, was passed over for Unai Simón, the long‑time No. 1 trusted by head coach Luis de la Fuente.
Despite his heroics in England, the Spaniard could not dislodge Simón, who has been a cornerstone of the national side since their European Championship triumph two years ago.
Raya, who helped Arsenal clinch their first league crown, expressed that the fierce rivalry between the three keepers – Simón, himself, and Barcelona’s Juan García – fuels a relentless push for excellence.
“We take the debate with total naturalness,” he told reporters before the match. “The competition makes us better and forces the manager to make tough choices. We’re here to help each other, and whoever plays will give their all.”
Spain’s warm‑up games showcased the depth of the position: García started a 1‑1 draw with Iraq, while Simón and Raya split the second half of a 3‑1 win over Peru, each delivering solid performances.
Raya reflected on his journey, recalling early days when fans barely knew his name. “I’ve been away from the national team for a long time. I want to make the manager’s decision as hard as possible,” he said.
Having spent 14 years in England, from Blackburn to Arsenal, Raya was once eligible to switch allegiances to England, but he dismissed the notion outright.
“No, it never crossed my mind,” he affirmed. “I feel Spanish. I’ve always wanted to wear this shirt, and that’s never changed.”
