Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has revealed he came close to joining Bayern Munich before completing his move to the Gunners, offering a fascinating insight into a transfer that could have changed his career.
The Spaniard has become a key figure under Mikel Arteta, but his journey to north London could have taken a very different turn. Raya has now confirmed that a move elsewhere was close before Arsenal stepped in.
His comments add further context to his rise at the Emirates, where his performances and underlying numbers have already highlighted his importance to the team.
Raya opens up on Bayern Munich’s pre-Arsenal interest
Speaking about his situation before joining Arsenal, Raya admitted he was close to signing for another club. He said: “I was very close to go to another club… luckily that didn’t happen, and Arsenal made the bid,” before confirming the identity of that club. He added:
“The club was FC Bayern.”
The revelation highlights the level of interest in Raya before his move to Arsenal, with one of Europe’s elite clubs close to securing his signature.
It was Arteta and the Gunners, however, who were able to get their hands on the Spaniard and they haven’t looked back since. David Raya, 30, has since made 136 appearances for the London club.
Arsenal move proves decisive
Arsenal’s decision to step in ultimately changed the trajectory of Raya’s career as he is now a regular challenger for the Premier League title. He and his teammates are yet to get their hands on silverware but that could all change in 2025/26.
Since arriving, the shot stopper has established himself as a crucial part of Arteta’s system, offering composure in possession and reliability between the posts.
His ability to contribute to Arsenal’s build-up play has become a defining feature of the team’s style, something that has already been reflected in his performances and data across the season.
From near-miss to key figure at the Emirates
Raya’s comments underline how different things could have been, with Bayern Munich representing a completely separate pathway. They currently boast Manuel Neuer between the sticks but will looking for a replacement for the German.
Instead of moving to Germany, it was Arsenal who provided the platform for him to develop into a central figure within a title-challenging side – and he’s been vital in Arsenal’s ability to tighten up at the back.
That trajectory now feels increasingly clear, with his influence continuing to grow as Arsenal push forward. A leader on and off the pitch, Raya’s status among his teammates cannot be understated.
