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David Raya is one of the best goalkeepers in the world. There is plenty of talk about Alisson and Thibaut Courtois, and understandably so, but we need to start involving David Raya in that conversation.
Look, David Raya is just as good as those two goalkeepers. Just because he hasn't won anything yet, it doesn't take anything away from his individual performances.
David Raya might not get that universal acclaim just yet, but he's more than appreciated at Arsenal. Not just by fans, but by the club, too.
When he first signed for the Gunners, he had some big gloves to fill. Aaron Ramsdale was a real fan favorite at the Emirates Stadium, and David Raya was an outsider at first. He was the new kid at school who needed to try extra hard to fit in.
Not before long, Raya cemented himself as the number one option. He rarely put a foot wrong, and now, Arsenal fans don't look back.
Neither does Arsenal, it seems.
Arsenal offer David Raya a pay rise without an extension
According to Sami Mokbel of the BBC, Arsenal has offered a new contract to David Raya to reward his performances. The contract length is the same as his previous contract, but his pay has increased.
To many, this might seem like a completely alien concept. It's often the case that an extension of the contract expiry date is mandatory when offered a pay rise. It's one of those 'duh' things whereby the club must get something out of giving more money away.
But not this time. David Raya will stay at Arsenal for the same amount of time, but for more money.
According to TBR Football, the reason why Arsenal offered David Raya more money without a contract extension is simple: To keep squad harmony intact.
Arsenal recently extended the contract of William Saliba, and of course, signed Viktor Gyökeres. This makes those two players earn more than Raya, alongside the likes of Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke too.
So, to make sure that everybody eats, Arsenal offered David Raya a contract extension too.
Look, this is wholesome to see. Nobody can deny that this is a great thing, and it shows that Arsenal is serious about competing in the future.
As fans, we always complain about the higher-ups at clubs treating the sport like a business. Well, Arsenal just did something completely selfless, so we must offer credit where its due.