Peter Schmeichel has made a bold claim about this season's top performer in the Premier League. The Manchester United legend believes David Raya deserves the Player of the Season award. His view comes despite strong competition from Bruno Fernandes, who has been in excellent form.
Fernandes' impressive season
Fernandes has played a key role in helping Manchester United secure a place in next season's Champions League. The Portuguese midfielder has impressed with his attacking numbers this season, scoring eight goals and providing 19 assists in 32 league matches. He has been one of the most creative players in the league. However, Schmeichel feels that Raya's impact for Arsenal has been even more important. The former goalkeeper believes Raya has saved crucial points for his team and has been the biggest reason behind Arsenal's strong title push this season.
Peter Schmeichel explains why David Raya stands above the rest
Peter Schmeichel believes David Raya has been the most decisive player in the league this season. He explained that if Arsenal did not have the Spanish goalkeeper, their position at the top of the table would not be the same. He pointed out that Raya's performances have directly earned Arsenal many points. According to him, very few goalkeepers in Premier League history have had such a strong influence on their team's success in a single season.
He also challenged the popular belief that Arsenal have the best defence. Schmeichel suggested that the team actually allows many chances but is saved repeatedly by Raya's brilliance. He stressed that the goalkeeper's consistency and match-winning saves make him the standout player this season. He added that his opinion is not just because he was a goalkeeper himself, but because Raya has clearly been the most impactful performer.
Raya's numbers support the argument
Raya's numbers support this argument. The 30-year-old has played every minute of the campaign so far. He has kept 17 clean sheets in 35 matches and conceded only 26 goals. His consistency has helped Arsenal stay ahead of rivals like Manchester City in the title race.
Meanwhile, Freddie Ljungberg has backed Erling Haaland for the award. He believes Erling Haaland's important goals and growing leadership make him a strong contender, especially if Manchester City finish the season on top.
