The air around Arsenal Football Club has recently been thick with a palpable sense of optimism. Emerging from the latest international break, the Gunners find themselves perched atop the Premier League table, a position earned through steadfast performances and a touch of timely fortune from rivals. Amidst the discussions of potential stadium expansion and a general feel-good factor, one piece of news has particularly resonated: goalkeeper David Raya is reportedly set to receive a well-deserved pay rise, reflecting his increasingly pivotal role within Mikel Arteta`s squad.
David Raya: The Undisputed Number One`s Reward
While the specifics of Raya`s new terms might appear peculiar – primarily increasing his remuneration without extending the standard years on his contract – the rationale behind this move is remarkably sound. When the Spaniard first arrived, there was a healthy, if at times awkward, debate over who would claim the coveted starting spot between him and the well-liked Aaron Ramsdale. Today, however, that discussion has all but evaporated. Raya has firmly established himself as the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, a testament to his consistent high-level performances.
It`s only fitting that his salary now aligns with his undeniable importance. Prior to these new terms, Raya was earning less than numerous other players, some arguably with lesser impact. His on-field contributions speak volumes: he has claimed the league`s prestigious Golden Glove award in each of the last two seasons. Furthermore, advanced metrics from FBref paint a picture of an elite shot-stopper and ball-player. Raya consistently ranks among Europe`s top goalkeepers, finding himself in the top 4% for percentage of crosses stopped, the top 7% for clean sheets, and the top 8% for save percentage per 90 minutes. His ability to prevent goals (0.78 goals against per 90, top 2%) and manage post-shot expected goals (0.92 per 90, top 4%) underscores his reliability. From a holistic perspective, recognizing his value not only rewards individual excellence but also cultivates a positive atmosphere within the squad, demonstrating that consistent effort yields tangible benefits.
Jurrien Timber: The Defensive Titan Deserving of Equal Recognition
Yet, in the midst of celebrating Raya`s deserved recognition, one cannot overlook another integral figure whose contributions, though perhaps less overtly celebrated, are equally deserving of a contract review: Jurrien Timber. The versatile Dutch international, acquired from Ajax in the summer of 2023 for approximately £38 million, represents an exceptional talent whose journey at Arsenal has been a masterclass in resilience and adaptation.
Timber`s initial season was cruelly curtailed by an ACL injury, sidelining him for nearly its entirety. However, his return has been nothing short of spectacular. Often playing at right-back, a position where defensive solidity sometimes overshadows flashy attacking prowess, Timber`s nuanced impact can sometimes fly under the radar of the broader footballing community. Yet, his performances this season have made him increasingly impossible to ignore.
Much like stalwarts Declan Rice in midfield or Bukayo Saka on the wing, Timber rarely drops below a 7/10 performance. Arsenal podcaster Adam Keys aptly described him as a “dementor for wingers” – a vivid portrayal of his exceptional anticipation, astute footballing IQ, and surprising physicality that suffocates opposition attacks. Beyond his defensive acumen, Timber has demonstrably enhanced his attacking contributions this season, with his display against Newcastle United being a prime example of his growing offensive influence.
The underlying statistics from FBref unequivocally support the eye-test, placing Timber among the elite full-backs in the Premier League. He ranks in the top 2% for both actual and expected non-penalty goals, showcasing his silent but effective presence in advanced positions. His involvement in chance creation is equally impressive, ranking in the top 2% for shot-creating actions and progressive passes. Defensively, he continues to excel, also in the top 2% for tackles. Furthermore, he is in the top 7% for total shots and pass completion, and the top 11% for touches in the opposition`s penalty area per 90 minutes. These numbers paint a comprehensive picture of a player who is not merely recovering from injury but actively redefining his position with consistent, high-impact performances.
Sustaining Success Through Smart Investment
Arsenal`s current trajectory is a testament to shrewd recruitment and meticulous player development under Mikel Arteta. Rewarding players like David Raya and, by extension, Jurrien Timber, is not merely a gesture of goodwill; it is a critical component of a sustainable strategy for success. Recognizing and adequately compensating key performers ensures their commitment, reinforces team morale, and safeguards the club`s valuable assets against external interest. As Arsenal aims to solidify its position at the pinnacle of English football and compete fiercely in Europe, ensuring that all crucial pieces of the puzzle are content and appropriately valued will be paramount. The future looks bright at the Emirates, and ensuring its brightest stars are fairly compensated is a non-negotiable step on that ambitious path.
