Declan Rice once again underlined his growing importance to Arsenal after producing a sensational display in today’s thrilling 3-2 win over Bournemouth. The England international scored twice in an end-to-end encounter, dragging the Gunners through a difficult test and delivering when his side needed him most.
Rice’s influence went far beyond the goals. Deployed in a demanding role, he drove Arsenal forward with authority, intensity and leadership, showing why he has become one of the first names on Mikel Arteta’s team sheet. His performance capped another outstanding week for the midfielder, who continues to expand his responsibilities within the squad.
According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Mikel Arteta said:
Declan Rice is constantly adding things to his game. He’s constantly adding things to his role in the team. I don’t see where he can stop because he can still improve in a lot of areas and he wants to improve. So, yeah, he’s such a pivotal player for us.
The Arsenal boss also revealed just how much Rice pushed himself to be involved in the game, with doubts over his availability right up until kick-off. His commitment was ultimately rewarded in the best possible way, as his two goals proved decisive.
Still according to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Arteta added:
Declan has put so much in the last few days to make himself available today. We didn’t know for how long, so he has stretched himself to the very limit. He got rewarded. The team got rewarded with two great goals.
Softfootball earlier reported that Arteta had already been full of praise for Rice following his unbelievable performance in a makeshift right-back role against Brighton, a game Arsenal won 2-1. With displays like these, Rice is no longer just a key midfielder, he is fast becoming one of the defining figures of Arteta’s Arsenal title chasing team.
