Mikel Arteta hits back at Gary Neville’s criticism of Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya – after Sky Sports pundit labelled the Spaniard a ‘nervous wreck’ during Gunners’ 1-0 win over Man City

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has hit back at Gary Neville’s criticism of goalkeeper David Raya following their 1-0 win over Manchester City.

The Gunners triumphed over last season’s treble winners on Sunday afternoon thanks to a late goal from Gabriel Martinelli, which deflected into the face of City’s Nathan Ake.

However, a big talking point at the Emirates has been Arteta’s decision to start the summer by re-signing David Raya in goal ahead of Aaron Ramsdale.

Ramsdale, 25, was Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper last season but has spent much of this campaign watching from the bench – despite a few shaky moments from Raya.

Against Lens on Tuesday, the former Brentford keeper came under scrutiny after his misplaced pass led to an equalizing goal for the French side.

Mikel Arteta (R) congratulated Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya (L) after their 1-0 win over Man City

Sky Sports co-commentator Gary Neville blasted the goalkeeper during Sunday’s win.

And, after a nervous first half against Manchester City, Sky Sports co-commentator Neville was quick to question the Spaniard’s confidence.

Speaking during the match, Neville said: “They (City) should have scored. The goalkeeper is everywhere in these first minutes. He’s really fragile, Raya.

“He’s just a little nervous, Raya. He doesn’t see things as clearly as Arsenal fans would like.

However, after the match, Arteta came to his goalkeeper’s defense and later praised the way his team had “handled the emotions” of the match.

‘I think he was excellent’, Arteta told Sky Sports. “The way he controlled the ball.

How dominant he was and how high he played. I like courageous players and David certainly has some great ones.

“(City) gives you a lot (of problems) and we gave them a lot of problems as well,” Arteta continued.

“It’s not easy to get out of it. You need the right timing, the right movement, the right moments. I like courage.

“You’re going to have those (tough) moments against this team. You have to be direct, manage the emotions and make sure you don’t get caught against this team.

Neville’s criticism of Raya continued throughout the first half after City’s Julian Alvarez chased down the Arsenal keeper and almost tackled the ball into the net.

Raya showed some shaky moments in the first half but looked comfortable in the second half.

Manchester City’s Julian Alvarez (L) almost attacks the ball into the back of the net at Arsenal

After Raya’s clearance was deflected by Alvarez, Neville insisted: “I can spot a goalkeeper a mile away, he’s a nervous wreck and there’s one right in front of you.”

“The mistake in midweek, he got carried away in that game. He’s not sharp enough and he’s very lucky.

“It’s obvious the goalkeeper is struggling, but he’s still playing short. They’ll be punished if they’re not careful.

“When you see he’s struggling as much as he is, go for it. Definitely keep him away.