As the 2024/25 Premier League season nears its climax, one of the most exciting storylines is the neck-and-neck battle for the prestigious Golden Glove. Two goalkeepers — David Raya of Arsenal and Matz Sels of Nottingham Forest — are locked in a thrilling race, each sitting on 13 clean sheets going into the final round of fixtures.
Let’s break down what’s at stake, who has the edge, and how this gripping contest is set to conclude.
🧤 The Contenders: Raya vs. Sels
- David Raya (Arsenal)
The Spaniard has had another stellar season following his permanent move from Brentford. Having won the Golden Glove in 2023/24 with 16 clean sheets, Raya has again been instrumental in Arsenal’s defensive prowess — helping the Gunners to the fewest goals conceded in the league. - Matz Sels (Nottingham Forest)
A surprise package, Sels has been a revelation since joining Forest. With 13 clean sheets and one of the league’s highest save percentages, the Belgian shot-stopper has been a rock at the back for a Forest team that’s defied expectations this season.
📅 Final Fixtures (May 25, 2025 – All games 3:00 PM BST)
- Southampton vs. Arsenal (St. Mary’s Stadium)
Arsenal will travel to face relegated Southampton. The Saints have scored the fewest goals in the Premier League this season — just 25 — giving Raya an excellent opportunity to record a 14th clean sheet.
📝 Note: Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be serving a one-match touchline ban after an incident in their recent match against Newcastle. Will this impact team morale? - Nottingham Forest vs. Chelsea (The City Ground)
Forest host Chelsea in what could be a dramatic clash. While Chelsea have been strong offensively this season, they will be without Nicolas Jackson (suspension) and Christopher Nkunku (injury) — limiting their firepower. For Sels, that might just be the break he needs to keep Chelsea at bay.
📊 Who Has the Edge?
On paper, David Raya appears to have the slightly better chance of keeping a clean sheet. Southampton’s attack has been ineffective all season, and Arsenal’s defense is among the best in Europe. However, Matz Sels can’t be ruled out — Chelsea’s attacking absences make Forest’s clean sheet chances far from unrealistic.
It’s a rare scenario where both keepers have a genuine shot at winning or sharing the award on the final day.
🏁 What Happens If They’re Still Tied?
If both keepers end the season with 13 or 14 clean sheets, the Golden Glove will be shared — a situation that has occurred in past seasons (e.g., in 2013/14 when Čech and Szczęsny shared it with 16 shutouts each).
💭 Final Thoughts
This season’s Golden Glove race is a perfect blend of talent, timing, and tension. Whether Raya becomes a back-to-back winner or Sels earns a historic first, this Sunday’s fixtures promise to deliver drama right until the final whistle.
Stay tuned — and keep your eyes on the goalposts.
