Mikel Merino, William Saliba react to Arsenal star David Raya's 'final' message

03/24/2025 01:49 PM

David Raya took to social media with a message for his supporters following the Arsenal shot-stopper’s time away from the Emirates Stadium.

His Spain side, led by Luis de la Fuente, advanced to the semi-finals of the National League Group A Championship, overcoming the Netherlands in a dramatic two-leg tie.

Following an enthralling 2-2 draw in the first leg, with Arsenal’s Mikel Merino popping up with an important goal in the third minute of time, the two sides could not be separated after six more goals were scored.

The Spaniards eventually overcame their opponents on penalties, and while Unai Simon was trusted in between the sticks instead of Raya, he celebrated the victory just as much as his teammates.

Mikel Arteta thrilled as David Raya returns to Arsenal unscathed

Taking to Instagram [24 March], Raya wrote: “FINAL FOUR. Great week of work and effort. Thank you very much, Valencia, for your support,” with a Spain flag.

Teammates Merino, William Saliba and Leandro Trossard all liked the post as the Gunners squad prepare to reunite at the end of the international break.

Arsenal preparing for end-of-season run-in at the Emirates Stadium

Football Insider verdict

While Arne Slot is set to lead Liverpool to the Premier League title in his first season at Anfield, there is still plenty for the Gunners to fight for in the final few weeks of the campaign.

Arteta’s side might be 12 points behind in the league table, but having set up a Champions League clash with Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, the team have an incredible chance to showcase their abilities on the biggest stage of them all.

Of course, Arsenal are still without star winger Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, with Riccardo Calafiori potentially joining that list, and supporters are still frustrated with the club’s lack of ambition during the winter transfer window.

With Andrea Berta now looking likely to join Arsenal to aid their recruitment, having recruited the likes of Antoine Griezmann and Jan Oblak for Atletico Madrid, those concerns could be addressed during the summer.

A number of high-profile signings would certainly make a splash amongst their Premier League rivals ahead of the next campaign, which Arteta needs if he is to survive the pressure at Arsenal.

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