David Raya provides update on back injury after Arsenal’s Burnley win

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David Raya has offered a reassuring update on the back injury he sustained during Arsenal’s crucial 1-0 victory over Burnley, declaring he will be fit for Sunday’s clash with Crystal Palace.

The Spain international appeared to be in significant discomfort after being caught by Zian Flemming while claiming a cross in the closing stages at Turf Moor. Raya clutched his lower back and required several minutes of treatment, raising concerns ahead of Arsenal’s title run-in.

However, speaking to Premier League Productions after the match, Raya played down the severity of the knock. “Yeah, I had a dead back, a dead glute and a dead shoulder but I’ll be fine,” he said. “Ice bath, I’m going straight away to the ice bath.”

Equalising Seaman’s record

The clean sheet against Burnley marked Raya’s 19th shutout of the campaign, equalling David Seaman’s club record. It also secured him a third consecutive Golden Glove award, highlighting his remarkable consistency between the posts.

“I am very proud of the collective way that we are playing and of course very, very proud of myself,” Raya reflected. “I’m trying to help the team as much as possible but without these players I couldn’t do it by myself.”

The goalkeeper praised Arsenal’s defensive solidity throughout the season, crediting the entire team for their commitment to keeping clean sheets. “From the start of the season we had that toughness defensively, that willingness to not concede that many chances and that many goals,” he explained.

Title implications

Kai Havertz’s first-half header proved enough to secure all three points at Burnley, moving Arsenal to within three points of their first Premier League title in 22 years. The victory sets up a potentially decisive encounter with Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Raya acknowledged the importance of maintaining concentration even in games where he has limited involvement. “We know how important it is in those moments where we dominate and I don’t have much to do but that concentration for 100 minutes to be focused to help the team when I’m needed.”

The 28-year-old believes his increased responsibility this season has elevated his performances compared to previous campaigns. “I think that was a big difference from last year and the year before to this year by myself where I had to step up and I think I did.”

With Manchester City still in pursuit, Arsenal cannot afford to lose their number one at this crucial juncture. Raya’s positive assessment of his fitness will come as welcome news to Mikel Arteta as the Gunners edge closer to ending their two-decade title drought.