Vito Mannone, who Spent Years as Arsenal's Backup, Advises Ramsdale to Think Carefully

Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale has been told to weigh up his options in the January transfer window if he continues to play second fiddle to David Raya, according to former Arsenal keeper Vito Mannone. Mannone, who served as Wojciech Szczesny's understudy before leaving for Sunderland in 2013, advised Ramsdale to consider his situation carefully and keep working hard. If the opportunity doesn't arise again for Ramsdale, Mannone suggested that he should seek it elsewhere.

Persistence Pays Off, Says Mannone

Mannone emphasized the importance of persistence, citing his own experience of waiting eight years before becoming a regular Premier League goalkeeper. He also mentioned Emi Martinez, who had to wait ten years before making a breakthrough. Mannone believes that hard work and patience eventually pay off. However, if Ramsdale's chance doesn't come again, Mannone suggested that he should look for opportunities elsewhere.

Competition for the Number One Spot

Raya arrived on loan from Brentford in August, displacing Ramsdale despite the latter's impressive performances last season. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta reportedly favors Raya for his ball-playing abilities. Since Raya's inclusion as the first-choice goalkeeper in early September, Ramsdale has made only one Premier League appearance, and that was because Raya was ineligible to play against his parent club. Mannone believes that having two potential first-choice keepers makes the manager's decision even more challenging.

Mannone Not Convinced Arsenal Can Maintain Their Title Challenge

Despite Arsenal's strong start to the season, Mannone expressed doubt about their ability to sustain a title challenge. He pointed out that Arsenal has topped the league at Christmas in the past, but has often faltered in the latter stages of the season. Mannone, who spent eight years at Arsenal, knows firsthand the difficulties of maintaining a title bid. However, he praised Arteta's leadership and managerial skills, hoping that the current Arsenal boss can achieve success at the club.