'I witnessed two of the best saves of my career' - Mikel Arteta astonished by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya's heroics against Atalanta in Champions League stalemate

Arsenal were hoping to kick off their Champions League campaign with a victory, but they could not break through a resilient Atalanta defence at Stadio Atleti Azzurri d'Italia on Thursday evening. While the Gunners struggled in the opposition box, the game’s defining moment came from Raya between the sticks just three minutes into the second half.

Atalanta were awarded a penalty after a VAR check by referee Clement Turpin and Raya made the most of the brief pause to consult with Arsenal's goalkeeping coach Inaki Cana for guidance. The Spaniard then dived the right way to parry Retegui’s penalty before reacting instantly to save the striker’s headed rebound.

Arteta was quick to praise his goalkeeper after the game, describing Raya’s saves as “two of the best” he had witnessed in his career.

“We gave away too many simple balls,” said Arteta. “But defensively, we didn’t suffer. And then I saw two of the best saves I’ve seen from a goalkeeper in that moment. David was outstanding.”

The brilliance of Raya’s double save did not go unnoticed by Arteta's opposite number, Gian Piero Gasperini, as the Atalanta manager marvelled at Raya's cat-like reflexes.

“He’s a cat. The first save is good but the rebound is unbelievable,” he said. “I believe the goalkeeper has been crucial. I feel sorry for Mateo because I believe it’s his best performance since he’s been with us.”

With the Champions League match behind them, Arteta’s focus now shifts to a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City this Sunday. The Gunners, who currently sit second in the Premier League, will face the reigning champions at the Etihad Stadium in a match that could see them leapfrog the leaders if they emerge triumphant.