Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has revealed that he wants to play in Spain before the end of his career.

The 31-year-old has never played professionally outside of England, having joined Blackburn Rovers’ academy from Cornella all the way back in 2012. However, when asked in an interview by Marca whether he’d consider joining a La Liga team, Raya replied:

“Yes, I would love to; I would love to try La Liga. At the moment I’m very happy here [at Arsenal], but I would like to try the Spanish league. I think it’s a very competitive league. Perhaps, in the future, I could play for a Spanish club. I’m Spanish, and I’d love to play there, that’s clear.”

Supporters on X have been discussing what the comments mean for Raya’s future at the Emirates:

@EduardoHagn @marca In other words, he needs a pay raise

— JM (@JackMasterFr) October 20, 2026

@EduardoHagn @marca 200 million

— Carlos Coelho 🇵🇹 (@CarlosCoel95232) October 20, 2026

@EduardoHagn @marca Maybe in 10 years and I’m good

— BoJack123ui (@BoJack1ui) October 20, 2026

@EduardoHagn @marca Spain don’t give you the time of day mate. Remember what side your breads buttered on.

— Marko (@n7gooner1886) October 21, 2026

@EduardoHagn @marca real madrid downloading

— Kichwa (@martmartinels) October 20, 2026

@EduardoHagn @marca Lock this absolute legend down RIGHT NOW

— 🏆Arsenal vs The World🏆 (@arsenalvworld) October 20, 2026

Raya’s contract will expire soon

The Spanish international has just over 20 months remaining on his current deal, and as things stand, he will be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with a foreign club at the beginning of 2028.

It is not known whether these comments are designed to pressure Arsenal into offering Raya an extension, but the decision to respond to the question from Marca in the way he did suggests he is sending a message of some kind.

Arsenal are trying to tie down 3 other players to new contracts

After Mikel Arteta committed his long-term future to the Gunners, the Premier League champions are now reportedly looking to hand new deals to captain Martin Odegaard, Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber.

The trio have deals that expire in 2028, like Raya, so it is pretty significant that the London club are prioritising those players over their number one keeper.

Kai Havertz, Ben White, Mikel Merino, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Ilhan Meslier also have contracts that run out at the end of next season.