Arsenal’s hard-fought victory over Girona in the Champions League should have been a moment of pure celebration, but an unexpected injury update from Mikel Arteta cast a shadow over the night.

The Gunners, who had already secured their spot in the knockout rounds, managed to turn the game around after going a goal down, thanks to strikes from Jorginho and young talent Ethan Nwaneri.

However, all eyes quickly shifted to Arteta’s post-match revelation about one of his key players.

Arteta Confirms David Raya’s Absence Was Due to Injury

Before kickoff, many assumed that Arteta had opted to rest first-choice goalkeeper David Raya, keeping him fresh for the crucial weekend clash against Manchester City.

However, after the game, the Arsenal boss set the record straight—Raya was unavailable due to injury.

“Yeah, he’s not fit,” Arteta admitted.

“Apart from that, if there is a player who deserves a chance, then it’s Neto.”

This revelation means that Arsenal could head into their showdown against Pep Guardiola’s side without their usual No. 1, a worrying prospect with the Premier League title race heating up.

Veteran Keeper Neto Makes Surprise Arsenal Debut

With Raya ruled out, Arteta turned to summer loan signing Neto, handing the Brazilian his first-ever appearance for the club.

At 35 years old, Neto became Arsenal’s oldest debutant in over a century, making history in an unexpected fashion.

The former Bournemouth and Barcelona shot-stopper was solid between the posts, helping Arsenal see out the game and secure a place in the Champions League round of 16.

But his real test could come on Sunday, should he be called upon to face Manchester City’s relentless attack.

A Goalkeeper Crisis Ahead of Manchester City Showdown?

If Raya remains sidelined, Arsenal will have only one senior goalkeeper available for the high-stakes match at the Emirates.

That leaves Neto as the likely starter, with teenage prospect Tommy Setford potentially being named on the bench.

Raya has been a constant presence for Arsenal in the Premier League, missing just one game last season due to ineligibility against his parent club Brentford.

His absence against Manchester City would be a significant blow, especially given the importance of the fixture.

With just a few days to go before the showdown, Arsenal fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on their No. 1 goalkeeper.

Will Raya recover in time, or will the Gunners be forced to rely on an unexpected hero?

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