When evaluating the monumental evolution of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, it is incredibly easy to be mesmerised by the outfield superstars.

It is tempting to point to the sheer match-winning brilliance of Bukayo Saka on the right flank, or the relentless, ground-covering engine of Declan Rice in midfield.

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It is equally easy to look at the imposing, brick-wall partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães and declare them the definitive bedrock of the team.

They are all unequivocally world-class. Yet, if you strip away the layers of Arsenal’s tactical blueprint, the most indispensable player, the absolute linchpin of the entire system, wears the number 22 shirt. David Raya is Arsenal’s most important player.

The Cost of Absence: Domestic Cup Struggles

To understand Raya’s profound value, one must look no further than what happens when he is removed from the equation.

The recent domestic cup stumbles offered a stark, sobering reality check. During the painful League Cup final defeat to Manchester City,...