Overview
- Speaking to ESPN/ESPN FC, Raya said Martín Zubimendi has adapted to the Premier League unusually quickly and called him a very clever player who elevates the team.
- Reporting notes Zubimendi has started every league match and scored twice in September’s 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest, reinforcing his growing influence.
- Former Arsenal defender Philippe Senderos separately credited Zubimendi with restoring balance to the side and enabling Rice to make more forward runs.
- Raya also described Max Dowman as “incredible,” praising the 15-year-old’s maturity after he became the Champions League’s youngest player with a late cameo against Slavia Prague at 15 years 308 days.
- The goalkeeper acknowledged Dowman has trained with the first team since age 14 and mentioned youth participation rules that limit dressing-room access, with Mikel Arteta easing the teenager into senior action as Raya rebounds from a late error in the 2-2 draw at Sunderland.