Former Man United player is helping Arsenal aim for the championship

Goalkeeper David Raya disclosed that former Manchester United defender Gabriel Heinze is the inspiration behind Arsenal's strong defensive line and their streak of seven clean sheets in a row.

Arsenal is showcasing one of the Premier League’s most impressive defensive performances this season, and goalkeeper David Raya has revealed that the mastermind behind this success is Gabriel Heinze, the former Manchester United defender who now serves as Mikel Arteta’s assistant coach.

Heinze joined Arsenal’s coaching staff last summer and quickly made a significant impact on their defensive approach. His presence brought a fierce fighting spirit and passionate coaching style, which Raya says has made the Gunners tougher and more focused than ever before.

“He constantly demands that we compete with high intensity. In a tough league like the Premier League, to win you must defend well. Matches are often decided by a single goal, so defensive solidity is crucial,” Raya said after the 2-0 victory over Burnley.

Currently, Arsenal have kept seven consecutive clean sheets, conceding only three goals since the start of the season. This record has helped Arteta’s team firmly hold the top spot, six points ahead of Manchester City and seven points clear of Liverpool.

Besides praising Heinze, Raya also emphasized the collective effort behind Arsenal’s defensive success: “From forwards to the goalkeeper, everyone contributes to protecting the goal. It’s a team effort, not just the work of one individual.”

Gabriel Heinze, who played for Manchester United from 2004 to 2007 and once teamed up with Arteta at PSG, is now the “perfect piece” in Arsenal’s coaching setup. Combining Argentine fighting spirit with Arteta’s disciplined approach, the Gunners currently boast one of the strongest defenses in Europe.

Looking ahead, Arsenal aims to continue their winning streak as they visit Slavia Prague in the Champions League before facing intense matches against Tottenham and Chelsea in November. Raya believes that: “If we maintain this focus and fighting spirit, Arsenal can make history this season.”