Mat Ryan told Arsenal that he could be a world-class option for them between the sticks, with questions about Bernd Leno’s future at Emirates Stadium.
He is also a world-class goalkeeper
The German international goalkeeper remained the Gunners’ first choice throughout the 2020-21 campaign, but made an odd mistake and saw a summer pass of speculation. Mat hopes to make his own move in the next window, with an Aussie eager to make the loan transition from Brighton something more permanent, and the 29-year-old is adamant that he has what it takes to be No.1 in North London.
Discussing his winter arrival and subsequent experiences with Arsenal, Mat Ryan said there was obviously a bit of frustration around how things ended up there at Brighton. Then that step came and he could understand why people could conclude that yes, he comes here as No.2 and wants to take his foot off the pedal, enjoy the workout and not push as hard. anyone who really knows him knows that this is not his style at all, he says. His motivation is to pitch and perform. This is the reason why he sacrificed every other aspect of his life, moving away from family and friends, to be here and be there on the field and represent the club he plays for. Obviously he knew Arsenal had a great goalkeeper at Leno, what he has done in his career is a testament to the world class goalkeeper he is, but in his opinion he is also a world class goalkeeper.
What will happen in the future
Mat has taken over three appearances for Arsenal so far, with all these appearances in the Premier League. Supporting duties are filled in in the Europa League campaign, in which the Gunners are chasing the last dock. They are set to host in the return leg of the semi-final clash against Villarreal on Thursday, with a 2-1 deficit to be canceled on home soil. Bernd is expected to start this competition, but Mat is willing to intervene if required. His short-term deal is due to expire at the end of the season, but Mikel Arteta has the option of retaining a veteran performer for 2021-22 – someone living the dream as an avid Arsenal supporter.