Rice Shines as Arsenal Power into Champions League Quarter-Finals
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and pundit Matthew Upson have both praised Declan Rice as an irreplaceable figure in the team, highlighting his impact on the pitch and influence in the dressing room after leading the Gunners into the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.
Key Highlights from the Emirates Stadium:
Midfield Partnership Flourishing: Rice has formed an impressive partnership with Martin Zubimendi, especially during periods when captain Martin Ødegaard has struggled with recurring injuries. The duo has become the driving force — and “spirit” — of Arsenal’s midfield.
Masterclass Performance: The 27-year-old midfielder recently scored the decisive goal in a 2–0 win over Bayer Leverkusen (3–1 on aggregate), earning the UEFA Player of the Match award for his outstanding display.
Relentless Engine: Matthew Upson described Rice as a “machine,” noting his incredible stamina and consistency despite a demanding schedule with minimal rest.
Mr. Knockout Stage: Remarkably, Rice has won Player of the Match in Arsenal’s last three Champions League knockout victories:
2–0 vs Bayer Leverkusen (this season)
3–0 vs Real Madrid (last season)
2–1 vs Real Madrid (last season)
แทงบอล Arteta praised his midfielder, saying: “He and Zubimendi are the soul of this team. Their commitment in every moment is incredible — especially maintaining this level every three days.”
Rice continues to prove himself as one of Arsenal’s most vital players, stepping up on the biggest stage and driving the club’s European ambitions forward.










