Aaron Ramsdale’s dad blasts Arsenal boss, over son’s treatment

Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta may earn himself an enemy or two before the season ends as his decision to go in for Brentford goalie, David Raya has resulted in more negative publicity than the Gunners needed.

Aaron Ramsdale’s father, Nick Ramsdale is the latest to air his opinion over the controversial move to relegate his son to bench status following his contributions the previous season.

Nick Ramsdale while speaking on The Highbury Squad podcast voiced his dissatisfaction with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta’s handling of the goalkeeping situation at the club.

Aaron Ramsdale, who made a high-profile move to Arsenal from Sheffield United in August 2021, swiftly rose to become the Gunners’ primary goalkeeper in the subsequent seasons, even inspiring a return to the Champions League for the Gunners.

However, the situation shifted at the onset of the 2023/24 season when Arteta brought in David Raya from Brentford, prompting speculation about Ramsdale’s role.

This uncertainty culminated in Ramsdale’s exclusion from the Premier League clash against Everton in September, subsequently relegating the 25-year-old to the bench for subsequent games.

Nick Ramsdale on The Highbury Squad podcast, expressed his disappointment with Arteta’s approach.

He highlighted a perceived loss of enthusiasm in Aaron, remarking,

“Aaron’s lost that smile to when he was holding onto that ball at this moment in time. And it is difficult. It really is difficult to see him there and we all keep saying you need to keep smiling.”

Acknowledging David Raya’s talent and work ethic, Nick Ramsdale emphasized that the issue might lie in the handling of the situation rather than the individuals involved.

He mentioned,

“It’s possibly the way it’s been done. Not knowing the reason why, and this is me because we don’t know why.”

The concerned father also reflected on discussions with Arteta before Aaron’s signing, noting a promised position for his son.

Nick Ramsdale stated his confusion over the decision to pursue Raya shortly after extending Ramsdale’s contract, questioning the swift change in approach.

While voicing his discontent with the process, Nick Ramsdale urged support for David Raya, acknowledging him as part of the Arsenal family, albeit expressing hope for a reconsideration of the decision in the future.