Thibaut Courtois Names David Raya Among World’s Best But Says Spain No.1 Spot Must Be Earned

Real Madrid’s shot-stopping giant Thibaut Courtois has praised Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya as one of the top three in the world—a massive accolade considering the Belgian himself is often placed at the summit of modern goalkeeping. But while Courtois is impressed by Raya’s rise, he believes the Arsenal star still has one huge hurdle to clear: Spain’s current No. 1, Unai Simon.

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Courtois Applauds Raya’s Red-Hot Form

In an interview with El Partizado, Courtois named his top keepers of the moment:
“Oblak is playing at a very high level. I really like Alisson. And I also really like David Raya.”

It’s hardly surprising. Raya has been a wall for Arsenal this season. The Gunners remain unbeaten in the Champions League and have yet to concede a single goal in the competition. Across all fronts, he has kept 11 clean sheets and let in only five goals—a phenomenal return for a keeper who only joined the club permanently last year.

His composure, sweeping ability, and elite long-range distribution have made him a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s system.

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The Battle For Spain’s No.1 Jersey

While Raya is shining at club level, the national team remains a different battlefield.

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has shown unwavering faith in Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simon. Since taking charge, Simon has been Spain’s go-to shot-stopper, starting during their 2023 Nations League triumph and their Euro 2024 victory.

Spain’s defensive record under De la Fuente speaks for itself:

• 31 games unbeaten

• Only two goals conceded in their last six fixtures

• Five consecutive clean sheets

Courtois acknowledges Raya’s quality but reminds everyone that international football is ruthless.

“Unai is performing extremely well for the national team, so he deserves to keep playing,” Courtois said. “That’s football and competition for you. Raya will have to wait for his chance. But it’s healthy competition.”

In goalkeeping terms, “healthy competition” might as well be code for no mistakes allowed.

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Is Courtois The World’s Best Goalkeeper?

It’s a debate that sparks arguments at pubs, stadiums, and comment sections worldwide. But if we’re talking achievements, the résumé speaks loudly:

• 337 appearances for Real Madrid

• 137 clean sheets

• Two Champions League titles

• Four La Liga crowns

• 2018 World Cup Golden Glove

• 2022 Lev Yashin Trophy

This season alone, he already has six clean sheets across all competitions with Real Madrid leading La Liga and pushing strong in Europe.

Courtois humbly agrees with the claim—but with a twist:
“I’m definitely one of the best, but it depends on each person’s taste. What matters is helping my club.”

Classic Courtois—dominant on the pitch, diplomatic off it.

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Final Whistle

David Raya is undeniably among the elite. Courtois recognizes it, Arsenal fans celebrate it, and the stats prove it. But until Luis de la Fuente hands him Spain’s No.1 shirt, Raya’s biggest challenge won’t come from Premier League strikers—it will come from Unai Simon.

And in the world of international football, one mistake is all it takes to change the hierarchy.