Ramsdale grateful for Arsenal fans' actions

Goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale says he loves being part of Arsenal, after receiving constant encouragement during their Premier League win over Brentford.

"A feeling I never take for granted. I love being part of this club. The fans have shown incredible passion in their support for me. Thank you," Ramsdale wrote on Instagram.

Ramsdale was signed by Arsenal for $33 million from Sheffield United in the summer of 2021, and immediately took the starting position from then-number one goalkeeper Bernd Leno. In the Premier League last season, he played all 38 matches, keeping 14 clean sheets, contributing greatly to Arsenal's runner-up finish. But this season, the England international lost his place to David Raya - who was loaned from Brentford with an option to buy for $35 million in the summer of 2024. Coach Mikel Arteta prioritized his compatriot goalkeeper because of his good footwork.

Ramsdale is encouraged by his teammates after the win over Brentford. Photo: Offside — Ramsdale is encouraged by his teammates after the win over Brentford. Photo: *Offside*

Ramsdale has not played in the Premier League since the 3-1 win over Man Utd on 3 September. Since then, he has only made two appearances in the League Cup - a 1-0 win over Brentford in the third round and a 3-1 defeat to West Ham in the last 16, before returning to the Premier League last weekend as Raya was not allowed to play against his current club.

Many Arsenal fans showed their support for Ramsdale by wearing jerseys, holding banners and singing his name. His teammates also tried to comfort him. After the match, most of them ran to celebrate with Ramsdale.

However, the lack of playing time affected Ramsdale's performance. Typically, in the 13th minute, he hesitated to bring the ball up and then made a bad pass when the opponent was close in the penalty area. Luckily for the 25-year-old goalkeeper, midfielder Declan Rice was able to retreat and block Bryan Mbeumo's shot right on the goal line. Ramsdale also threw the ball up incorrectly once, forcing his teammates to clear the area.

In the second half, Ramsdale played more steadily, helping Arsenal keep a clean sheet and win 1-0. In the post-match press conference, Arteta praised Ramsdale and did not criticize his players for their mistakes. "That's football. I'm very happy with what the team showed. We kept a clean sheet and are improving. Ramsdale is very brave, has character. That's why I like him. I like the way the players encourage each other," said the Spanish coach.

Arteta has said he will rotate between Raya and Ramsdale. But Raya seems to have won the battle and recently, the British media reported that Arsenal have decided to buy Raya outright. This has sparked rumours that Ramsdale will leave the Emirates in the January transfer window.

Vinh San (according to Goal )

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