Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya cemented his status as a fan favorite with a heartwarming gesture after the Gunners’ important 1-0 win against Brighton & Hove Albion on Wednesday night.
Amid the high-stakes tensions of competing for the Premier League title, the Spaniard took time out to create a lifelong memory for a young supporter at the away Amex Stadium.
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David Raya’s gesture towards young Arsenal fans
As the final whistle blew, marking a hard-fought three points for Mikel Arteta’s side, Arsenal’s players headed to the traveling fans to show their gratitude.
While most people were caught up in the jubilant celebrations, Raya spotted a young man in the front row who had been cheering for the entire 90 minutes.
The 30-year-old shot-stopper looked classy as he removed his match-worn gloves and handed them directly to the delighted youngster, BBC Sport reported.
“In a jubilant away end, David Raya hands the gloves to a young lad. There was a huge cheer as the full-time result for Man City was confirmed.”
The gesture sparked renewed applause from Arsenal fans around him, with goodwill for the goalkeeper growing following his consistent performances between the sticks this season.
The win marked Raya’s 14th clean sheet of the season, and he spent a few more minutes applauding the supporters after another solid performance.
Man City drop points, Arsenal win
Immediately after the whistle, the atmosphere on the away side went from celebratory to ecstatic as news of the major reversal in the title race got through.
Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw by Nottingham Forest at the Etihad, a major setback for Josep Guardiola’s side.
Taken together, these results mean Arsenal have opened up a huge five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with just a few games remaining.
It was a far cry from the north London side’s old performances, with Bukayo Saka’s early goal being the only difference in what many pundits described as an “ugly” win.
Arsenal’s momentum is solidified and the Gunners are closing in on their first league title in over 20 years.
