Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has revealed he "would love" to play for a La Liga club before he retires, expressing a desire to return to his home country in the future.
The Spaniard, who has established himself as one of the world's top shot-stoppers in recent seasons, is in the running for the Yashin Trophy after making the ten-goalkeeper shortlist for the award, which will be presented at next week's Ballon d'Or ceremony.
Raya opens up on Spanish league ambition
Raya, who grew up as a Real Madrid supporter, was asked in an interview with Spanish outlet Marca whether he wants to return to Spain. "Yes, I would love to," he said. "I would love to try out La Liga. For now, I'm very happy here [at Arsenal], but I would certainly like to experience the Spanish league."
"I think it's a very competitive league. Perhaps, in the future, I could play for a Spanish club. I'm Spanish and I'd love to play there, that's for sure," he added.
Contract status and recent honours
The 31-year-old has entered the final two years of his contract at Arsenal, though he received a salary increase on that deal last year. Raya was named in the team of the season for both the Premier League and Champions League last season and has won the Golden Glove in each of the last three seasons, making him the favourite to secure a fourth consecutive award in May.
Raya is also a World Cup winner, having been an unused substitute behind Unai Simon throughout the tournament.
Raya reflects on a "perfect year"
Reflecting on his recent achievements, Raya said: "I believe I've had a perfect year. Perhaps the only thing missing was playing in the World Cup. Every year since I arrived at Arsenal, I've continued to improve and hopefully that will keep happening."
"But I truly believe this year, by winning the Premier League and playing a decisive role in the league, the Champions League, and the Community Shield, it has been my best season as a professional, being impactful and lifting trophies," he concluded.
