Why Arsenal Might Have to Start a 16-year-old Goalkeeper

Arsenal have made some changes in their goalkeeping department this season. After securing the permanent services of David Raya from Brentford this summer, the Gunners shipped out former number one Aaron Ramsdale, to Southampton.

✅ Aaron Ramsdale to Southampton from Arsenal, deal confirmed. pic.twitter.com/wa9MXBehv5

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 30, 2024

Despite Ramsdale arguably being too good to be a back-up ‘keeper, the move might have come back to haunt Arsenal. Following a series of unfortunate circumstances, the Gunners may be forced to hand a start to 16-year-old Jack Porter in their League Cup clash against Bolton Wanderers.

Arsenal also loaned former back-up goalie Karl Hein to La Liga side Real Valladolid in the summer window.

Porter only turned 16 back in July, and has made six appearances for the Gunners under-18’s side, and just one for the under-21’s.

However, due to the following reasons, Porter might be given the opportunity of a lifetime in the third round of the Carabao Cup.

Why Won’t David Raya Play?

David Raya is now Arsenal’s uncontested number one, and the Spaniard has proved himself as one of the world’s best shot stoppers over the last 12 months.

He made an excellent double save in their Champions League clash against Atalanta, a fixture where Jack Porter appeared on the bench. Not only that, but Raya’s ball playing is up for debate as one of the best in the world, it’s clear why Arsenal value their ‘keeper so highly.

David Raya is the highest rated goalkeeper in Europe's top five leagues this season (7.82). 👏 pic.twitter.com/SPR7rPgVFJ

— WhoScored.com (@WhoScored) September 24, 2024

However, Raya was spotted limping and bandaged up following Arsenal’s draw with Manchester City, where the Gunners conceded a last minute equaliser via John Stones.

Whilst Raya’s injury is understood to not be serious, it’s likely he’ll be rested for the cup clash in favour of keeping him fit for the rest of the Premier League campaign.

Why Won’t Norberto Neto Play?

The former Barcelona man is understood to be Arsenal’s second choice goalkeeper, signing on loan from Bournemouth over the summer. However, Neto is cup tied in the competition, since he featured in Bournemouth’s round two defeat to West Ham United before he joined the Gunners.

Norberto Neto in his first training session for Arsenal. 🏃👏 pic.twitter.com/z280YsJpOX

— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) September 3, 2024

Why Won’t Tommy Setford Play?

The highly rated 18-year-old Tommy Setford, who spent time with Ajax and features prominently for Arsenal’s under-21 side, is also unavailable for this fixture.

🚨 Tommy Setford appears likely to be included in the Arsenal first-team squad this season with his name having been listed in the dressing room at Emirates Stadium.

The introduction of names above each player’s space in the dressing room is a new initiative ahead of this… pic.twitter.com/m1nx2hfow3

— The Arsenal Times (@Arsenal_Timez) August 9, 2024

Setford hasn’t been training with the title-hopeful squad since the international break, due to an injury impacting his fitness levels. It would’ve been a huge opportunity for Setford, who will be disappointed to miss out, but it does present an excellent chance for Porter to grab this opportunity with both gloves and impress Arteta.

The Arsenal boss has been cautious with blooding youth in the past, with Ethan Nwaneri limited to sparse minutes, but it appears he’ll have no choice for the upcoming fixture against Bolton.