Declan Rice, the talented midfielder, has undergone a remarkable transformation at Arsenal. Once perceived as a traditional holding midfielder, Rice has defied expectations and emerged as a potent attacking force within the team. His ability to contribute goals and assists has demonstrated the diverse range of skills he possesses, dispelling the notion that he is solely a defensive player. Under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta, Rice has been given the freedom to showcase his attacking prowess, resulting in a surge of success for both himself and the team.
Even as early as March 2021, Rice expressed his desire to prove himself as more than just a simple and basic player who protects the back four. He was determined to show the world his ability to produce goals and assists, to be an exciting and dynamic force on the pitch. Fast forward to his Arsenal career, and Rice has been able to fulfill these ambitions. Playing in a team that leads the Premier League in scoring, Rice has flourished as an attacking midfielder.
In recent weeks, Rice has been unleashed by Arteta to push forward and threaten the opposition’s defenses. This change in role has allowed him to thrive, and his performances have reflected this newfound attacking freedom. During a recent match against Brentford, Rice scored a powerful header, showcasing his ability to contribute goals to the team. This goal marked his sixth of the season, making it his most prolific campaign to date. In fact, he has netted three goals in his last six appearances alone, demonstrating his growing goal-scoring prowess.
However, Rice’s impact extends beyond just scoring goals. He has also become a creative force, contributing four assists since being given set-piece responsibilities in January. In addition, his driving runs through the opposition’s midfield have been a sight to behold. Drawing inspiration from midfield greats like Yaya Toure and Patrick Vieira, Rice has developed the ability to burst forward, utilizing his athleticism and running power to exploit open spaces and create opportunities for his teammates.
Although Rice’s attacking evolution has been rapid, it is important to note that his primary position remains as a defensive midfielder. He still excels in this role and feels most comfortable anchoring the midfield. However, with the intelligent presence of Jorginho in the team’s defensive setup, Rice has been able to venture forward with confidence. This partnership has allowed Arsenal to maintain their shape while unleashing Rice’s attacking potential.
The team’s dominance in possession has also played a significant role in Rice’s development as an attacking force. During Arsenal’s current eight-match winning streak in the league, they have averaged an impressive 65% possession. This level of control has forced opposing teams to retreat deep into their own half, providing Rice with ample opportunities to make an impact in the final third.
Rice’s attacking contributions this season have been nothing short of outstanding. He has been directly involved in 12 goals (six goals and six assists), surpassing his previous best return of nine goal involvements achieved during his time at West Ham. This impressive tally highlights the progress he has made since joining Arsenal, confirming his decision to work under Arteta as a catalyst for his growth.
In conclusion, Declan Rice’s transformation from a traditional holding midfielder to an attacking force at Arsenal has been a revelation. His ability to score goals, create chances, and make driving runs through the midfield has showcased a newfound versatility and dynamism in his game. With the freedom granted by Arteta’s tactical approach and the team’s dominance in possession, Rice has flourished and surpassed expectations. Arsenal’s £100m man has proven that there are indeed far more strings to his bow than initially perceived.
