Alisson Becker Earns Praise from Arsenal’s David Raya for One-vs-One Mastery | OneFootball

David Raya’s Admiration Underscores Alisson’s Enduring Excellence

Liverpool’s Status Fuels Recognition from Rivals

As Liverpool continue to set the pace in the Premier League, the admiration they attract from peers and rivals alike becomes a testament to their sustained quality. Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, no stranger to elite competition himself, offered a revealing insight during a conversation with Ben Foster on Amazon Prime.

Pressed to name the finest shot-stopper in world football, Raya didn’t hesitate:“Alisson. Obviously Alisson, Courtois. I really, really like Kobel from Borussia [Dortmund],” he said.

It was a moment of candid appreciation, delivered without agenda. Raya’s response speaks not just to Alisson Becker’s consistency but also his universal influence across footballing cultures.

One-vs-One Masterclass Continues to Amaze

The Brazil international has long been synonymous with composure in chaos, and Raya’s words underscore why:“I think Alisson is just…the one vs ones, he saves everything. I don’t know how he does it, he saves every single one on one.”

There’s a reverence in Raya’s tone, a recognition that what Alisson does is not merely technical but instinctive. His command of angles, anticipation of movements, and ability to close distances defy conventional training. It’s a masterclass in reading the game before it happens.

Photo: IMAGO

Raya, himself an elite-level keeper, openly admits to learning from Liverpool’s No.1:“Yeah of course, you have to have an open mind just to see how can he be so good in one vs ones, what he does.”

What makes Alisson so formidable, Raya suggests, is not just reflexes but how he processes moments.“He reads those situations so well… the way he reads things is incredible in those situations.”

Experience and Intuition Make the Difference

Alisson’s physicality is matched by a psychological edge—an innate understanding of when to pounce. Raya continues:“He’s been one of the top goalkeepers in the world for so many years and the quality he has, the experience. That’s those things that gives you that extra edge to make one vs one saves.”

In a game increasingly dominated by data and marginal gains, Alisson’s decision-making remains refreshingly human—and often infallible. At 32, he blends veteran calm with physical sharpness, qualities Liverpool depend on during their title pursuits.

Alisson’s Legacy Grows with Every Game

Last week’s emotional letter from Alisson was a reminder that beneath the gloves and medals lies a player who feels deeply. His raw reaction following Liverpool’s title-clinching win over Tottenham was not just personal—it was communal.

This isn’t simply about trophies, though there may be more to come. It’s about a figure who has defined an era for Liverpool, inspired admiration from his peers, and redefined what it means to guard a goal.

Raya’s respect doesn’t come lightly. But it is entirely deserved.