Mikel Arteta faces Goalkeeping dilemma as David Raya suffers injury ahead of Leicester clash

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a concerning update regarding David Raya's fitness ahead of the Gunners' upcoming Premier League fixture against Leicester City. The Spanish goalkeeper is in doubt for Saturday's game after suffering a muscle injury during Arsenal's 2-2 draw with Manchester City last weekend.

The injury occurred in the final moments of the intense match, where some Manchester City players accused Raya of time-wasting as he dropped to the ground. However, after being seen limping with a bandage wrapped around his thigh in the mixed zone at the Etihad Stadium, it became clear that the issue was genuine.

Speaking after Arsenal’s dominant 5-1 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday, Arteta acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Raya's availability for the Leicester game. "We don’t know yet," Arteta said when asked about the goalkeeper's condition. "He’s got a muscular injury, so we need to check." Raya's absence could be a major blow for Arsenal, who signed him for £27 million from Brentford this summer.

Jack Porter took gloves in the Bolton game

The match against Bolton provided an opportunity for Arsenal's young talent to shine, with 16-year-old goalkeeper Jack Porter making history as the youngest-ever shot-stopper to represent the club. Porter impressed on his debut, helping his side cruise to victory, with exciting teenage midfielder Ethan Nwaneri netting twice.

Arteta praised the young goalkeeper's calmness under pressure, saying: “We told him yesterday, and he was over the moon straight away. It’s a big step, and what an experience for him.” The manager also highlighted the support Porter received from his teammates during the big occasion.

Beyond Raya’s injury, Arsenal faces other fitness concerns with Jurrien Timber and Ben White also on the recovery list. Timber is dealing with a thigh issue, while White is nursing a minor knee injury, which prevented him from starting against Manchester City.