Paul Merson has pinpointed a stunning David Raya save as the moment that could ultimately deliver Arsenal their first Premier League crown in over two decades.
The Title-Defining Intervention
The crucial moment arrived on Saturday, 27 December 2025, during Arsenal's hard-fought 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. Having moved 2-0 ahead through a Martin Odegaard strike and a Georginio Rutter own goal, the Gunners saw their lead halved by Diego Gomez's rebound effort. The game hung in the balance until the 77th minute, when Brighton's Yankuba Minteh unleashed a curling shot destined for the top corner.
Spanish goalkeeper David Raya reacted with breathtaking agility, flinging himself to tip the ball over the crossbar in what has been widely described as a world-class intervention. The save preserved Arsenal's slender lead and allowed them to secure three vital points, sending Mikel Arteta's side back to the summit of the table, two points clear of Manchester City.
Merson's Verdict on a 'Magnificent' Stop
Reacting live on Sky Sports' Soccer Saturday, former Arsenal star Paul Merson was left in awe of Raya's heroics. "I shouted 'goal', it was a goal, but all of a sudden Raya comes from nowhere and he puts it over the bar," Merson exclaimed. "It is an unbelievable save. It's magnificent."
Merson went further, suggesting the save's significance could echo through the remainder of the season. "If Arsenal go on and win the title, we will have to go back to the Raya save. It was off the charts," he stated. "Nine times out of 10, that's a goal. That's massive for me. A massive, massive save."
Boost from Returning Stars
The match also provided a significant boost for Arsenal with the return of key players from injury. Striker Gabriel Jesus, back from an 11-month lay-off, made a substitute appearance that Merson believed helped calm proceedings. The Brazilian's composure contrasted with the battling display of starter Viktor Gyokeres, offering Arteta a welcome selection dilemma.
Furthermore, defender Gabriel Magalhaes made his return from the bench in the 71st minute, replacing Myles Lewis-Skelly. Jesus was quick to highlight the importance of his compatriot's comeback. "As everyone could see, it changed our back line when he came on," Jesus said. "We had been conceding chances but when he stepped on the pitch you can see the difference, he is a leader, he is a beast at defending. It is a massive, massive boost for us."
With the squad deepening at a critical juncture and momentum building, Arsenal's belief is palpable. Jesus summarised the mood, acknowledging the challenge posed by serial winners Manchester City but expressing firm belief in his team's credentials. "Everyone knows how tough it is to play in the Premier League, to fight up there," he said. "Manchester City have won a lot, now we are more experienced, we have a bigger squad. It's amazing to be [top] and chasing the Premier League. That is where Arsenal belongs."
