David Raya’s outstanding form continued as Arsenal equalled a 122-year club record for consecutive clean sheets during their 3-0 win over Slavia Prague. The Spanish goalkeeper has now gone nearly 13 hours without conceding, anchoring a run of eight straight shutouts across all competitions — the first time since 1903 the Gunners have achieved such a feat.
Raya was barely troubled in Prague, with Slavia managing just one shot on target. Even so, he remained sharp — racing to the touchline to consult goalkeeping coach Iñaki Caña when a late penalty was awarded, only for VAR to overturn the decision.
“I have to be alert 90, 100 minutes every game,” Raya said afterward. “You never know when the chance will come.”
Since joining from Brentford in 2023, Raya has kept 50 clean sheets in 110 appearances, surpassing former record holder Jimmy Ashcroft. He currently boasts the Premier League’s best save rate (84.2%) and is also one of the fastest goalkeepers in the division, regularly sweeping up behind Arsenal’s high defensive line.
Manager Mikel Arteta praised his concentration and consistency, calling Raya “exceptional” in training and on matchdays. The keeper credited a “heart-to-heart” with Caña after a difficult period last season for helping him refine his game.
Arsenal, now unbeaten in 10 straight matches, will look to extend their historic defensive streak when they visit Sunderland on Saturday.
