Mikel Arteta’s bold plan to have two number one goalkeepers in Arsenal’s squad this season could backfire spectacularly if he is not careful.
That’s according to former Belgian goalkeeper Geert De Vlieger, who says the pair could succumb to the inevitable pressure the situation will bring.
Arsenal appeared to be happy with their goalkeeping situation after their title challenge last season, with Aaron Ramsdale the undisputed number one after working hard to earn it.
It was a surprise to many, then, when Arsenal agreed a deal with Brentford to sign goalkeeper David Raya on loan for the season with an obligation to buy him under certain conditions.
So far, their playing time has been split, with Ramsdale starting the season in goal but finding himself replaced by Raya for the last two games.
It’s a situation that is already creating a tonne of speculation and interest, with Mikel Arteta already being questioned about it and that unlikely to change anytime soon.
Indeed, the pressure is only likely to increase as the season wears on and De Vlieger cannot see that being a good thing.
“A battle between two first-choice goalkeepers doesn’t often work out,” he said.
“When Courtois left for Chelsea, the club realised they had to make a choice, and Cech left. Courtois and Navas at Real Madrid didn’t work either. I’m curious to see what will happen at Arsenal.
“Ramsdale was good last season, but Arteta wanted a second number 1, Raya from Brentford. Raya has just played the last two games. You can already feel that everyone is comparing and judging them. Won’t they succumb to the pressure?”
