LONDON — Arsenal`s starting lineup against Brentford, heavily rotated with an eye towards the upcoming match against Real Madrid, notably included Declan Rice. Despite being a key player who arguably deserved rest, Rice`s presence was crucial, signaling his importance to the team beyond just fan adoration.
With Bukayo Saka`s injury and Martin Odegaard`s slight dip in form, Arsenal needed a new driving force, and Declan Rice stepped up. Whether he`s best described as a defensive or box-to-box midfielder is almost irrelevant; his versatility is his strength. It has become clear that with their attack weakened, Rice can carry the team`s offensive burden.
Rice has become integral to Arsenal`s identity, influencing their play significantly, as seen in the 1-1 draw with Brentford. Despite the draw, Arsenal`s attacking play, marked by dangerous crosses and set-piece threats, was evident. Rice even nearly scored directly from a corner, following his previous free-kick goals against Real Madrid.
The opening goal showcased Rice`s incredible energy and drive. He carried the ball from deep within Arsenal`s half, evaded a challenge, and held possession to allow Thomas Partey to overlap and shoot past Mark Flekken. This solo counter-attack occurred just days after Rice covered over six miles in a previous game, despite a foot issue. Arteta described this play as `unbelievable`.
Arsenal typically don`t often engage in open, running attacks due to opponents` tactical adjustments. However, against Real Madrid, with potential open spaces at the Bernabeu, Rice`s driving runs could be a key weapon.
Arteta wants to utilize these runs more, depending on the opposition`s approach. He noted that when opponents press high, it creates spaces for counter-attacks, referencing the set-piece situation that led to the goal as an example of exploitable space.
At just 26, Rice continues to reveal new dimensions to his game. While he likely possessed the ability for such runs and passes at West Ham, he now utilizes them more frequently and effectively at Arsenal. His ball-striking, in particular, has improved significantly in North London.
Rice has evolved into a complete midfield player, with his touches in the opponent`s box increasing by eight percent since Saka`s injury. Similar increases are seen in expected goals, chances created, and progressive carries – metrics typically led by Saka. Rice has effectively compensated for Saka`s absence.
Reflecting Arsenal`s overall performance, despite good offensive output, there could have been more. Arsenal had 14 shots with an expected goals (xG) of 0.82, which isn`t exceptionally high. However, limiting Brentford to just three shots is a positive defensive aspect. Arsenal has held opponents to 0.3 xG or less in seven Premier League games this season, averaging 1.61 xG in those matches, yet their record is only three wins and four draws.
Brentford`s equalizing goal, a flicked finish by Wissa from a cross, highlighted Arsenal`s defensive vulnerability. Adding to their challenges, Arsenal finished the game with 10 men after Jorginho`s injury, leaving Arteta with no further substitutions. Such setbacks have been a recurring theme for Arsenal this season.
Despite these challenges, if Rice maintains his current form and integrates effectively with a fully fit Saka and in-form Odegaard, this season can still be successful. Reducing the burden on Rice could unlock even greater potential for both him and Arsenal.
Adrian Whitmore