Arsenal maintained their Premier League title hopes with a crucial 3-0 victory over Bournemouth; Declan Rice was in particular impressive.
In the second half, the Gunners withstood some difficult pressure from Bournemouth to earn all three points, and Rice was instrumental in the progress of the game by providing an exceptional assist for Leandro Trossard and scoring the game-winning goal.
This season, Rice has performed admirably both at the midfield’s foundation and in a more advanced capacity, contributing to 15 Premier League goals and 15 assists.
Following Bournemouth’s victory, Mikel Arteta was quick to commend his record-breaking acquisition, Rice. Arteta has emphasized the extraordinary manner in which Rice has flourished in a variety of positions.
Mikel Arteta praises Declan Rice for excelling in multiple Arsenal roles
Arteta emphasized the difficulty of Rice’s efforts throughout the entire season and lauded the 25-year-old for so readily assimilating his concepts in his post-match remarks.
“We anticipated that it would be highly relevant to his positioning on the field and the areas he intended to occupy,” he explained.
“Also, manage to accomplish it in this league while giving him credit.” We have occasionally switched him from position to position, which is difficult for a player to adjust to; therefore, I believe he merits a great deal of credit for that.”
How Declan Rice has shone in multiple positions
Arteta says £27m transfer decision has set ‘huge foundation’ for Arsenal to win trophies
Rice began the season positioned at the base of the midfield. Although he occasionally returns to that position, his contributions to Arsenal continue to be valuable.
It is not difficult to attribute Arsenal’s Premier League-leading defensive record to Rice’s additional security in defending the back four.
With Jorginho or Thomas Partey occupying the space behind him, Rice has also excelled in the forward position, as evidenced by his career-high goal and assist totals.
Everything you need to know about Arsenal star Declan Rice, including his height and girlfriend.
The Englishman has justly earned his price tag with his ability to recover the ball high up the field and execute brilliant, creative moves such as his assist today, which establish him as the consummate midfielder.
Despite Arsenal failing to secure the championship, Rice has elevated their quality of play and was arguably the most valuable player in the Premier League this season.