Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has denied criticism regarding his performance against Everton.

David Raya may not have faced any shots to save against Everton, but that doesn’t diminish the value of his clean sheet compared to Jordan Pickford’s.

The Arsenal goalkeeper seemed irritated when asked if a quiet afternoon allowed him to guide his teammates on breaking down Everton’s defense. Instead, he used the opportunity to highlight his active contribution, emphasizing that he was far from a bystander. Raya pointed out how his role helped Arsenal maintain 77% possession and limit Everton’s set-piece opportunities.

“You say I had nothing to do, but I thought I played really well in that aspect,” Raya said. “Maybe not in making saves, but in helping the team—stopping the ball from going behind, managing possession regains, and all that stuff. That’s just part of the game, part of how we play, and what the team needed.

“They needed me when the ball went in behind. I tried to come out, keep the ball, and avoid rash decisions or just kicking it out of play. So, I thought it was a complete game for myself.”

On Arsenal’s inability to score, Raya added, “I don’t think it’s a confidence issue. It’s just football. Sometimes you score from set pieces, sometimes from open play. We’re dangerous in both areas.

“In games like these, when teams sit back, it’s harder to create chances and goals. We had opportunities, but Everton defended well. They’re good in those situations, so we just have to focus on ourselves and kee

p going.”