Ramsdale has fallen out of favour at the Emirates Stadium. David Raya made the number one position between the posts his own, while on loan last season - the Spaniard has now signed a permanent deal with the Gooners.
The former AFC Bournemouth man enjoyed his first two seasons at Arsenal and looked set for a lengthy career in North London, however, the signing of Raya looks to have scuppered such plans.
As a result, the England international’s gametime is likely to be limited once again - he featured just six times in the Premier League last season. The former AFC Bournemouth man enjoyed his first two seasons at Arsenal and looked set for a lengthy career in North London, however, It would seem to make sense for both Arsenal and Ramsdale to part company as the 26-year-old’s career has stalled since the arrival of Raya.
However, Mikel Arteta’s stance may have already been made. In April he previously said: “I’m not going to comment on them things [transfer rumours].” When pressed on Ramsdale’s situation, he continued: “Suggestion? There is a big reality that Aaron is here because he is our player and has a contract.”
The ‘keeper was part of Gareth Southgate’s UEFA Euro 2024 squad but did not feature in the tournament. Before the competition he spoke to talkSPORT and admitted finding it ‘tough’ while not playing at his club, he said: “No footballer wants to not play…I’ve had a tough year personally not playing and I never want to do that again."
Ramsdale’s contract runs until the summer of 2026, meaning a move this summer would command a higher fee than if his contract is allowed to run down. If Ramsdale were to complete a move to the east Midlands he would be in for some tough competition once again as Forest have Matz Sels, Matt Turner, and new signing Carlos Miguel all ready to play if needed.
Nottingham Forest pre-season guide
It could be an exciting season ahead for Nottingham Forest as they look to push on under Nuno Espirito Santo.
After successive relegation fights since their return to the top-flight, the Reds are hoping this time around will be different. The aim for 2024/25 is to kick on in the Premier League and get higher up the table.
After two years back among the elite, the Reds are now well aware of the task in front of them and the challenges they face. And although there is no doubt this particular division takes no prisoners, there is a sense Forest are now equipped to meet the test head on.
Indeed, there is plenty of cause for optimism among Reds fans. Progress is the watchword around the City Ground at the moment, and the hope is that supporters won’t be chewing their fingernails or calculating final-day survival permutations come May.
Forest showed glimpses of what they are capable of under Nuno last term. The Portuguese also clearly had the foundations of a very good squad already in place.
But pre-season has really shown what might be possible with the 50-year-old at the helm. His team have looked sharp, have been keen to get on the front foot and have put together some lovely passages of play.
Admittedly, reading too much into summer friendlies is unwise. Predicting how an unpredictable Premier League might pan out is not easy at the best of times.
Nevertheless, do not underestimate just how valuable having uninterrupted time with his players can be for Nuno. He has described pre-season as the “most important” period of the year and felt he missed out by being appointed Trentside in the middle of the last campaign.
Nuno has plenty of talent at his disposal as he looks to plot a course for the months ahead. Players such as Ibrahim Sangare have the potential to really show what they are about, the likes of Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga are capable of once again making their mark, and Morgan Gibbs-White can get even better. And then there are the new signings to add to the mix.
It will be fascinating to see whether Carlos Miguel takes the No 1 spot. Nikola Milenkovic has been brought in to try to solve the Reds’ set-piece troubles. Eric da Silva Moreira looks a great find and Elliot Anderson can be an excellent addition. Further signings are expected to follow.
There is a lot to look forward to. With that in mind, we have produced our Nottingham Forest 2024/25 kick-off special, our brilliant guide to the new season.
Our reporter Sarah Clapson will waltz you through what to expect from the Reds this coming season, turn the spotlight on Nuno, run the rule over the key men and pinpoint the ones to watch. Our club-by club guide will give you the lowdown on Forest’s Premier League rivals and the managers in the division, while our away-day pages will tell you all you need to know about the grounds the Reds will be visiting.
With a full fixture list and key dates for the campaign, Nottingham Forest 2024/25 Kick-Off will get you in perfect match shape in time for the Reds’ opening day curtain-raiser at home to Bournemouth on Saturday, August 17.
On sale in selected independent retailers and supermarkets around Nottingham priced £3.50 from Wednesday, August 7, 2024. Worldwide shipping available, postage and packaging applies.
0 Comments