Bola.net – Declan Rice played in a physical condition that was far from ideal, but actually became the difference for Arsenal in the latest match, Sunday 4 January 2026.
The England national team midfielder scored two crucial goals as the Gunners beat Bournemouth 3-2 and moved six points away at the top of the Premier League standings.
This victory felt even more special because Rice had just been doubtful due to a knee problem.
For Mikel Arteta, Rice’s performance is not just about goals, but a reflection of the winning mentality he wants to instill in the Arsenal dressing room.
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Forced to the Limit, Remains Decisive
Arsenal player, Declan Rice (right), celebrates a goal with his teammates in the Premier League match against Bournemouth, Sunday (4/1/2026). (c) AP Photo/Alastair Grant
Declan Rice was absent from the previous match due to a knee injury. His condition was still swollen before the match, making his presence in Arsenal’s starting XI at Bournemouth headquarters a big question mark.
Arteta admitted that Rice really pushed himself. The midfielder played the full 96 minutes and was able to maintain his intensity in midfield, before finally emerging as the decider.
“Declan Rice has struggled in the last few days, but he keeps pushing himself and making sure he can play,” said Mikel Arteta.
“He played 96 minutes, scored two goals and was one of the best players on the pitch. This is the mentality we need from everyone.”
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The Rare Brace That Changed the Course of the Match
Declan Rice scored a goal in the Bournemouth vs Arsenal match, Sunday (04/01/2026). (c) AP Photo/Alastair Grant
Two goals against Bournemouth brought Arsenal ahead from a 1-1 draw to 3-1, after Gabriel first equalized. For Rice, it was a rare moment in his career.
In 375 senior appearances at club level, this is only the second time Rice has scored more than one goal in a match. Previously, he did this with two spectacular free kick goals against Real Madrid last season.
“I’ve been in a situation where I scored one goal and wanted to add a second goal but it didn’t happen. Now it’s finally happened,” Rice told the BBC.
He also admitted that he was surprised when he found out that it was his first brace in a league match. “That’s a crazy statistic. I haven’t scored many goals this season, so to score two goals in this important win feels really special.”
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Recognition for One of the Best Midfielders
Rice’s performance received widespread praise, including from former England striker Jermain Defoe, who was a pundit on Match of the Day. He assessed that Rice’s contribution was not only visible when attacking, but also when Arsenal defended.
“I think it’s a masterclass,” said Jermain Defoe. “Both with and without the ball, he is very good. He wins a lot of second balls, his positioning is very intelligent. He is definitely one of the best midfielders in Europe.”
Arteta did not hesitate when asked whether Rice deserved to be called one of the world’s best midfielders. “For me, yes,” he stressed.
“He keeps adding new things to his game. I don’t see the limit because there are still a lot of areas he can improve, and he wants to keep improving.”
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Consistency and New Roles That Make Him Shine
Since joining from West Ham for a transfer value of around 100 million pounds, Rice has slowly evolved. This season he has operated more often as an attacking midfielder compared to his defensive role in the past.
The data shows just how big Rice’s influence is. He has recorded 146 passes into the penalty box, the most in the Premier League this season. He is also in the top 10 in the league for touches of the ball, chances created and possession regained.
Within Arsenal, Rice is the top player for passes that break the opponent’s defense line, including when he carries the ball himself. With four league goals this season, only Viktor Gyokeres and Leandro Trossard have scored more for the Gunners.
