Arsenal Faces Setback with David Raya Injury; 16-Year-Old Tapped as Replacement

David Raya is expected to be rested for Arsenal's Carabao Cup tie with Bolton Wanderers after picking up a knock against Manchester City.

The Spain goalkeeper has started the 2024/25 season in incredible form. After a fine display against Tottenham Hotspur in the north London derby, Raya grabbed headlines with a stunning double save in a draw with Atalanta in the UEFA Champions League. He then came to the Gunners' rescue several times during Sunday's 2-2 draw at the Etihad Stadium.

However, during the second half of their enthralling stalemate with City, Raya had to receive treatment on an injury. He played the full match but is set to be left out of Arsenal's next game.

The Daily Mail report Raya still has a knee problem, and though it is not believed to be serious, Arsenal will not take risks and will keep him out of their team to face Bolton at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday.

However, the Gunners are short of options in the goalkeeper department for this third-round matchup. Backup stopper Neto is cup tied after playing in round two with Bournemouth prior to his loan move to north London, while 18-year-old summer signing Tommy Setford has been unavailable for selection recently due to fitness concerns.

That leaves manager Mikel Arteta with little choice but to play 16-year-old Jack Porter, who has only played six times for their Under-18s and once for their Under-21s.

Porter was part of the travelling squad for Sunday's trip to City but was not named in the matchday squad.

Raya should be available again for Arsenal's Premier League clash at home to Leicester City on Saturday.