Joe Hart has backed Spain's decision to leave Arsenal's Premier League-winning goalkeeper David Raya on the bench at the World Cup, arguing that Unai Simon has earned his place as the nation's number one through consistent performances over several years.
Simon started Spain's opening group game, a goalless draw with Cape Verde, and was between the posts for Sunday's emphatic 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia. Raya, who played a pivotal role in Arsenal's title triumph last season, has been an unused substitute in both matches.
Raya's Outstanding Season Overlooked
Raya's absence from the starting lineup has surprised many Premier League observers given his exceptional form. The 30-year-old conceded just 27 goals in 38 league appearances, winning the Premier League Golden Glove for the third consecutive season. His performances at the Emirates have led many to consider him among the world's best goalkeepers.
Despite his club success, Raya has earned only 13 caps for Spain since his international debut in 2022. In contrast, Simon has 60 international caps and has been Spain's first-choice goalkeeper since 2021, playing a key role in their Euro 2024 victory.
Hart's Analysis on the Goalkeeper Debate
Discussing the situation on The Rest is Football, former England goalkeeper Joe Hart said: 'I think it's tough. Unai Simon came in from David de Gea, who took over from Iker Casillas. De Gea was the No. 1 for a while and he was playing at such a level for Manchester United. But he had a drop-off and Luis Enrique was under so much pressure to take him out of the team.
'Unai Simon wasn't really bashing the door down at that point but he got in by default and since that moment he's not really put a foot wrong. The coaches really like him and he obviously helped Spain win the Euros two years ago.
'I'm a massive fan of David Raya, he is hot right now and is at the peak of his powers and seems to be getting even better. But as a goalkeeper once you've got that No. 1 jersey, you almost have to lose it yourself rather than someone go past you.
'Simon is playing at such a high level for his club and country and not really putting a foot wrong, he's an important cog in their machine. He's a really good goalkeeper, he's a safe pair of hands. Of course David Raya is one of the best at this moment in time but Simon has done well over the last couple of years so they're going to do well to take the jersey off him.'
Hart Would Stick with Simon
Asked whether he would start Raya ahead of Simon, Hart replied: 'I can make a case for why David Raya should be playing. He's electric and a real matchwinner. There's no way Arsenal win the Premier League without him being at his elite best. But Unai Simon is safe and solid, a real vital cog in this Spain side. I don't think the manager would lose a wink of sleep if he had to play either one of them.'
Spain, the reigning European champions, are among the favourites to win the World Cup alongside defending champions Argentina, 2022 runners-up France, and England. They face Uruguay on Saturday in their final group match, where a win would secure top spot in Group H.
