“We know very well that we won the league, but that is history from last season. We have the same thirst for success this year, which is why we have to maintain maximum concentration and fight on every pitch,” Raya told the Premier League’s official channels.
Arsenal moved into second place with a 1-0 victory at Nottingham Forest, keeping themselves three points behind leaders Manchester City. The contest at the City Ground was tight, with the visitors needing a late breakthrough to take all three points.
Noni Madueke provided it. Introduced at half-time, the winger scored in the 80th minute to settle a match in which Arsenal had struggled to turn possession into clear opportunities.
Raya was keen to stress that the contribution from the bench was part of the team’s strength rather than an isolated intervention.
“Even the teammates who start on the bench are fully aware of their importance, because they know they can split open games like these,” he said.
The result was particularly satisfying given Arsenal’s recent difficulties at Forest. Raya noted how rarely his side had returned from the ground with a victory, describing the latest success as a significant achievement.
“Coming home with the three points from a ground like that has a fantastic taste,” the Spanish goalkeeper said.
His contribution to Arsenal’s style extends beyond stopping shots. Raya explained that he regularly takes part in the team’s possession and passing exercises, helping him prepare for opponents who press aggressively and attempt to force mistakes when Arsenal build from the back.
“Arteta asks us to take risks to get past the first line of pressure. So, whether it is managing the ball at my feet or interpreting the team’s style of play, I feel completely comfortable,” he said.
That confidence with the ball is an important part of Mikel Arteta’s approach, allowing Arsenal to use their goalkeeper as an additional passing option when opponents close down the defenders.
The Forest win also offered another example of Arsenal finding a way through a difficult match. Their attacking display was not fluent throughout, but Madueke’s decisive contribution ensured that a frustrating afternoon ended with three points.
Raya’s message was that the previous campaign cannot provide a guarantee of future success. Arsenal must keep the same desire and concentration if they are to stay in the title race and mount another sustained challenge to Manchester City.