Declan Rice’s Impact Fuels Arsenal’s Victory Over Bournemouth

BOURNEMOUTH, England — Mikel Arteta maintains that every match begins with his pre-match press conference. Therefore, the Arsenal manager is cautious in disclosing team news to prevent opponents from gaining any advantage. In this context, Declan Rice’s match-winning performance in Saturday’s 3-2 victory against AFC Bournemouth was meticulously planned over 24 hours in advance.

Rice missed Tuesday’s win against Aston Villa due to a swollen knee, and Arteta’s vague comments during Friday’s media briefing cast considerable doubt on the midfielder’s availability for the Vitality Stadium clash. However, not only did Rice start the match, he also scored twice, contributing significantly to a crucial victory that positions Arsenal six points clear at the top of the Premier League.

Arsenal desperately needed Rice’s impact. The team appeared disjointed and particularly careless in possession during the first half, prompting Arteta to show visible agitation on the touchline. He engaged in a prolonged discussion with the Bournemouth bench after Rice was the victim of an unpunished challenge.

Gabriel Magalhães inadvertently gifted Bournemouth the lead in the 10th minute, passing the ball directly to Evanilson at the edge of his own box. David Raya was caught out of position, allowing Evanilson an easy finish.

Gabriel redeemed himself six minutes later with an excellent left-footed strike to equalize. However, Arsenal struggled to find their rhythm, constantly pressed by Bournemouth’s high-energy lineup, which forced the visitors onto the defensive. The Gunners showed improvement for a 30-minute stretch after halftime, during which Rice emerged as a pivotal figure.

Only Martín Zubimendi recorded more touches (90) and ball recoveries (12) than Rice, who had 80 touches and 8 recoveries. Yet, it was his lethal contribution in the attacking third that proved decisive. Rice’s strike in the 54th minute was expertly placed into the corner, and his second goal in the 71st minute showcased acute precision facilitated by Martin Ødegaard’s superb passing.

Despite Arsenal’s two-goal lead against a side without a win since October 26, they still managed to create tension as Junior Kroupi scored a long-range effort for Bournemouth. However, the home side failed to register another shot on target as Arsenal held firm in the closing stages.

Throughout much of the second half, the chant “Declan Rice in red and white, I like it” echoed around the stadium, reflecting the fans’ appreciation for his performance. This marked only the second time in his career that Rice scored twice in a match, the first being two free kicks against Real Madrid in April that are now part of club lore.

While it remains too early to assess the significance of this victory in Arsenal’s quest for a first league title in 22 years, the Gunners are doing just enough to maintain their lead over the chasing pack and apply pressure on Manchester City.

During the club’s preseason tour in Singapore, Rice set personal targets to increase his goal and assist contributions while adapting to the No. 8 position he now occupies after transitioning from his previous No. 6 role. In just his 19th league appearance of the season, Rice has already matched his goal tally from the previous season, which took him 35 games to achieve.

He did not disclose specific details about his remaining targets, but his progress is evident. “I’ve been in situations before where I’ve scored once and wanted to score again, but it didn’t happen. Now it has,” Rice remarked. “We need everyone contributing at different points, so I’m happy to help the team.”

Arteta was asked to reflect on Rice’s new goal-setting and how it originated. “We sit down together and set goals,” he explained. “But goal-setting alone is insufficient; a plan is required to implement and realize those goals.”

“Rice is extraordinarily consistent in his performances and his desire to excel. This consistency is what makes the difference. He possesses the ability and quality to achieve his goals, and he demonstrates this every day.”

Despite Manchester City’s failed attempt to acquire Rice, they are now poised to sign Antoine Semenyo, who was included in the squad for this match despite an imminent £65 million move. Semenyo’s impact on the game was minimal, overshadowed by Gabriel’s resilience and Rice’s brilliance.

“I was pleased with the team’s progression in terms of individual personality and presence today,” Arteta noted. “Gabriel Magalhães displayed remarkable character after making a significant error leading to the goal. His response and energy were commendable, as was Rice’s performance.”

Bournemouth’s manager Andoni Iraola expressed frustration with referee Chris Kavanagh for awarding a free kick that led to Arsenal’s third goal and for blowing the final whistle just as Semenyo was about to deliver a cross from a promising position.

Returning to the initial question regarding Rice’s status among the world’s top midfielders, Arteta affirmed, “Yes, for me. The players we have are the best, and Declan is continually enhancing his game and role in the team. He is a pivotal player for us, and I see no limit to his improvement.”