Former Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was moved when he returned to the Emirates Stadium this Saturday. The Southampton goalkeeper had recently made a £25 million move to The Saints this summer.
This was in reaction to David Raya’s rise in The Gunners’ ranks. The Spaniard was initially bought in on a loan but ended up replacing Ramsdale with his unbelievable performances.
Arsenal fans sparked an emotional reaction from Aaron as they welcomed him during the warm-up leading to the Southampton clash. Following the exit, the English goalkeeper was probably uncertain about the fan’s reaction to his return.
Gooners even chanted his name multiple times at the end of stoppage time. Ramsdale was certainly moved by this gesture and will probably never forget his time at Arsenal and the Emirates Stadium.
The Saints goalkeeper made 89 appearances for The Gunners during his stint in London. He was the first-choice goalkeeper for Arsenal for almost three seasons.
Phenomenal with his feet, Ramsdale is known for his unreal distribution alongside his shot-stopping abilities. Being 190 cm tall only added to his already skilful profile.
The 26-year-old goalkeeper has enjoyed great success at almost every club he has played for. Having spent his whole career on the British Isles, Ramsdale is a five-time England international.
Aaron Ramsdale’s journey with Arsenal and the aftermath
Aaron Ramsdale made significant contributions to Arsenal
If I was sitting on the bench, it [winning a trophy] wouldn’t have meant that much to me. I just wanted to play football. As a kid I wanted to play football to play, not to just sit on a bench. Getting out and playing was my aim so I’m lucky I found myself here at Southampton.
-Aaron Ramsdale via Football Focus
One of the main reasons for Ramsdale’s departure was David Raya’s arrival. The Spaniard’s success meant Ramsdale would need to warm the bench most of the time.
Winning a trophy wouldn’t mean that much to Aaron if it wasn’t for his significant contributions. The 26-year-old goalkeeper just wants to play football.
It is easy to warm the bench and earn millions just for being a backup but the monetary aspect of the game hasn’t changed Ramsdale’s love for football.
Even after falling out of favour with Mikel Arteta, The Saints goalkeeper left on a positive note with the manager. The two still keep in touch and are grateful to have worked with each other.
What he did for me in my time at Arsenal, I can only thank him for, and he thanked me for my contribution
-Aaron Ramsdale via talkSPORT
