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Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has revealed how Paris Saint-Germain have evolved since their last meeting with the Gunners, ahead of Tuesday’s crucial Champions League semi-final first leg at the Emirates Stadium.
Speaking to Amazon Prime, Raya reflected on PSG’s development, particularly noting their impressive performance against Aston Villa in the quarter-finals.
“I think the second leg was a hell of a game against Aston Villa at Villa Park,” Raya said. “Obviously, we played PSG in the group stages, and I think they’re looking like a different team now compared to back then.”
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The Spanish international praised the way Luis Enrique’s side have improved their pressing game.
“I think they now press all together — I know Luis Enrique from the national team, so I’m familiar with his style. There’s a big difference between how they pressed us in the group stage and how I saw them pressing Aston Villa.
David Raya (Image credit: Getty Images)“They press as a unit no matter the score or the minute of the match. They stick to their approach, and I think that’s why they’ve grown so much since the group stages,” Raya explained.
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The Arsenal shot-stopper also offered insight into the similarities between his current manager, Mikel Arteta, and PSG boss Luis Enrique.
“They are very similar in terms of being very analytical about what we have to do to take advantage of the opponent,” David Raya noted. “Things they point out during meetings often happen exactly as described on the pitch. Having a manager like that makes you more focused and more alive in training because you know it will translate directly to the match.”
Arsenal will be hoping Raya’s inside knowledge helps them gain the upper hand as they seek to secure a place in the Champions League final.
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