David Raya determined to be Spain’s number one for World Cup

David Raya has said he is doing all he can to be Spain’s number one goalkeeper for the World Cup.

Spain boast remarkable strength in depth in goal, with Raya competing against long-term number one Unai Simon and Barcelona’s Joan Garcia for one position.

The Arsenal goalkeeper won a third consecutive Golden Glove on route to the Premier League title last season, but faces a challenge to dislodge Euro 2024 winner Simon.

Garcia, meanwhile, had an excellent debut season at Barcelona and won both La Liga and the Zamora Trophy.

“I’m doing everything I possibly can to make it hard for the coach to decide who will start on Monday,” the Arsenal goalkeeper said when asked about the competition at a press conference.

“It’s normal in the media that there is a goalkeeper debate with both Joan (Garcia) and Unai (Simon) in La Liga. I’ve spent many years abroad. I remember the first time I joined the national team people were asking who I was, so for me it’s natural.

“I am doing my job at my club to improve and be able to represent my country, which is the most important thing for me at the moment. To be here, to try and help the team as much as possible, and try and add a second star to our shirt. So I’ll leave the debate to all you guys (media).”

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