Arsenal shot-stopper David Raya has raised eyebrows with an unusual justification for his failure to stop Dominik Szoboszlai's spectacular free-kick during Sunday's Premier League clash at Anfield, which ended in a 3-1 defeat for the Gunners.
The Spanish goalkeeper, on loan from Brentford, offered a head-scratching explanation post-match, suggesting the ball's placement on the pitch rather than his own positioning was primarily responsible for Liverpool's second goal.
'The Ball Was Moving' - Raya's Curious Defence
"When the ball is that far from the goal, it's difficult for a goalkeeper to position themselves properly because the ball is moving," Raya told reporters in comments that left many football pundits baffled.
This peculiar reasoning came despite clear footage showing the ball remained perfectly stationary before Szoboszlai's strike, following a deliberate placement by Liverpool players after a foul was awarded just outside the box.
Technical Analysis Exposes Flawed Argument
Football analysts were quick to dismantle Raya's explanation, noting that professional goalkeepers at elite levels are specifically trained to handle set-piece situations regardless of ball movement during setup.
The 28-year-old's comments have sparked debate among fans and experts alike, with many suggesting the goalkeeper should focus on his positioning and reaction time rather than external factors.
Arteta's Goalkeeping Dilemma Deepens
Raya's questionable performance and subsequent explanation will likely intensify discussions about Mikel Arteta's controversial decision to replace established number one Aaron Ramsdale with the loanee goalkeeper.
The Gunners' defensive vulnerabilities were exposed throughout the match, with Raya's unusual comments adding to growing concerns about the team's stability at the back during crucial fixtures.
As Arsenal reflects on their Anfield disappointment, Raya's bizarre justification for conceding Szoboszlai's wonder strike may prove more memorable than the goal itself in post-match analyses.
