David Raya has been told he won’t start for Spain at this summer’s World Cup despite his outstanding form for Arsenal.
The Gunners’ goalkeeper has been one of the main reasons Mikel Arteta’s side remains in contention for what would be an historic Premier League and Champions League double.
Raya was to the fore again last weekend when his save from Mateus Fernandes prevented West Ham from taking what would have been a late lead.
That crucial block could yet prove to be one of the most pivotal moments in Arsenal’s campaign, but that latest moment of brilliance is still unlikely to be enough to convince Spain boss Luis de la Fuente he should be in goal for Spain this summer, according to Gaizka Mendieta.
‘David Raya is pushing, but due to the manager’s way of operating, putting trust in his players, it’s very difficult to change his mind,’ Mendieta told PlayUK.
‘Like what happened with Cucurella in the Euros and the Nations League, there were questions about why he was playing, and then he proved everyone wrong.
‘It’s very difficult for a manager to lose faith in someone he has selected. Sometimes, it’s not about giving credit for what players are doing at their own clubs, it’s about the manager trusting someone, and he won’t drop them because it would kill their confidence.
‘So, I think that’s unfortunate for Raya in this situation. The manager trusts Unai Simón and that will not change unless something drastic or dramatic happens.
‘But definitely, he’s proved his value over and over every season. He’s among the best players in the world right now.
‘It’s unfortunate for him that the situation is the way it is. I’m sure he will have his chance in the national team. It’s just a matter of being ready, being prepared, and whenever that moment comes, to take it and hold onto it.’
Regardless of how many trophies Arsenal end the season with, meanwhile, they are sure to embark on another major recruitment drive this summer.
Strengthening a forward line that has struggled for goals, particularly against elite opposition, is likely to be a priority and Mendieta expects the north London club to make a move for Atletico Madrid Julian Alvarez.
He said: ‘Arsenal will be looking at Julian Alvarez, and salary-wise, the offer would be better than Barcelona’s. I don’t think he will move, though. I don’t think he is going to go anywhere because Atletico Madrid are in a good place financially with a new owner.
‘He’s not been happy throughout the season at times, being the sole striker is never easy. But the way he’s ended the season, scoring goals, has always been important for the team, scoring team goals throughout the season.
‘I think he feels very important within the team and the club. I’m not sure, but I think he will stay at Atletico Madrid and try to win something with them. I think that’s the choice he made when he decided to go to the club where he is happy to be now.’