David Raya has called on Arsenal to embrace the pressure and play with confidence as the club pushes for its first Premier League title in 22 years.
The Spanish goalkeeper believes enjoyment and self-belief will be crucial as Arsenal compete across multiple fronts. With progress in domestic and European competitions still intact, optimism is building in north London under manager Mikel Arteta.
After reaching the fifth round of the FA Cup for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2020, Arsenal now refocus on the Premier League title race.
The Gunners travel to Molineux to face Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C. on Wednesday, knowing a win could extend their lead over reigning champions Manchester City F.C. to seven points.
For Raya, the mindset is clear: play without fear.
“Confidence and enjoyment are the most important thing in this sport,” Raya told Sky Sports.
“Being confident is the most important thing to be a footballer. You have to be confident, and you have to enjoy it because if you don’t, you’re not going to be yourself. You’re not going to be able to help the team.If you play without fear you cannot play football. You’re not going to enjoy the moment, you’re not going to enjoy being on the grass.
So, confidence is going to be key for us. Everyone needs to be confident to know what they’re doing, and the main thing is to enjoy the process.”
Despite strong performances this season, Raya insists the squad must remain grounded as the campaign enters its decisive phase.
“Everything is open. We cannot think too much about it. We just have to focus on ourselves and go day by day, training session by training session and game by game, which is the most important thing.
If you think too far ahead, you’re not going to see it. So, just go in the present.”
With belief growing and momentum on their side, Arsenal’s title ambitions remain firmly in their own hands.
