Sports May 19, 2026

UMVA Exclusive: Arsenal Goalie David Raya's Intense Back Injury Update Post-Burnley Victory

UMVA Exclusive: Arsenal Goalie David Raya's Intense Back Injury Update Post-Burnley Victory

UMVA has learned that Arsenal's goalkeeper, David Raya, has provided a positive update on the back injury he sustained during the closing stages of his team's 1-0 win over Burnley.

The win, secured by Kai Havertz's first-half header, moved Arsenal to within three points of guaranteeing their first Premier League title in 22 years. Raya's performance was instrumental in achieving this milestone, as he kept his 19th clean sheet of the season.

In the dying moments of the game, Raya was involved in a concerning incident when he was challenged by Zian Flemming while attempting to claim a cross at the far post. He appeared to be in agony, clutching the lower part of his back, and the game was stopped for several minutes while he received treatment.

LONDON, ENGLAND - MAY 18: David Raya of Arsenal celebrates the first arsenal goal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Burnley at Emirates Stadium on May 18, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Fortunately, Raya has reassured fans that he will be fine, revealing that he had a "dead back, a dead glute and a dead shoulder" but plans to take an ice bath to aid his recovery. This is a significant relief for Arsenal, who could require one more win to fend off Manchester City's challenge and cannot afford to be without one of their most important players.

Raya's achievement of 19 clean sheets in the season has earned him a place in Arsenal's history books, as he equaled a club-record held by a former goalkeeper. He expressed his pride in the collective way the team has been playing, stating that he is "very proud of the collective way that we are playing and of course very, very proud of myself".

The goalkeeper emphasized the importance of the team's defensive efforts, highlighting that "if you keep that clean sheet it is easier to win games". He also acknowledged the significance of his own concentration and focus, stating that "that was a big difference from last year and the year before to this year by myself where I had to step up and I think I did".

EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or "live" services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Javier Garcia/Shutterstock (16881286ae) Zian Flemming of Burnley is booked for this challange on Arsenal Goalkeeper David Raya Arsenal v Burnley, Premier League, Football, Emirates Stadium, London, UK - 18 May 2026 Arsenal's Gabriel (right) and goalkeeper David Raya celebrate after the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium, London. Picture date: Monday May 18, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: John Walton/PA Wire. RESTRICTIONS: EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or "live" services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications.