Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta commended backup goalkeeper Karl Hein for his “good performance” following Hein’s standout penalty shootout display in a pre-season friendly against Bournemouth.
With first-choice goalkeepers David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale on a break after Spain and England respectively reached the Euro 2024 final, Hein stepped up as Arsenal’s senior goalkeeper during their three-match tour in the United States.
The Estonian shot-stopper seized the opportunity to impress Arteta in the match against the Cherries at Dignity Health Sports Park.
The friendly ended in a 1-1 draw, with Fabio Vieira netting Arsenal’s goal in the 18th minute. The match proceeded to a penalty shootout, where Hein became the hero by saving penalties from Philip Billing and Ryan Christie, securing a 5-4 victory for Arsenal.
“I’m very happy for him,” Arteta said. “Obviously, he had to be really patient and wait for his opportunity. He came back from his holidays really sharp and prepared; he knew that he had big games ahead of him, and he started tonight, and I think he had a really good performance.”
Despite Hein’s impressive showing, his future at the club remains uncertain. The 22-year-old Estonian international signed a long-term contract extension over the summer, but the arrival of England youth international Tommy Setford from Ajax suggests Hein might be loaned out to gain regular playing time.
