MumbaiDeclan Rice's command over midfield is largely responsible for Arsenal's newfound advantage this season. The 25-year-old has emerged as a key player in the team's attempt to finally cross the finish line as they aim for the Premier League title once more after three seasons of narrow defeats.
Rice talked openly about the level he believes he has attained after settling into the season following their league draw of 1-1 with Brentford. He feels that he is now functioning at the level necessary to propel a title challenge, following a brief period of adjustment in the beginning.
"I'm playing my game better than I've ever felt. At the beginning of the season, it took me a few games to catch up, but now I'm in gear. I'm constantly giving my best effort. In an interview with JioHotstar, Rice stated, "That's what I want to maintain week in and week out, playing at my peak, being the best player I can be, and helping the team achieve big things."
Rice stated that the squad's temperament is where the larger change is found, even though individual consistency has been crucial. He clarified that despite growing expectations, the Arsenal dressing room is characterized by calm and clarity rather than nervousness.
It's the group's composure, in my opinion. We're not concerned with the noise around us or what other people are doing; we're just enjoying each game as it comes. We ourselves are in a strong position. Good things will come if we continue to win. Even though our team is young, we have a great mentality: calm, focused, and unconcerned with what other people think. Rice stated, "We're just focusing on our own game and what the manager asks of us, which has worked well so far."
Rice emphasizes the significance of Arteta.The 27-year-old also reserved particular praise for Mikel Arteta, emphasizing the tactical detail and manager's preparation as key elements in Arsenal's success.
"I consider myself extremely lucky to have played under him. Even though he is still young in his managerial career, he will be regarded as one of the greatest when everything is said and done; judge him when he has won everything, because he will. He has amazing tactical skills; his setups, game preparation, and opposition analysis are all perfect. I just have to concentrate on playing on the field because he has instilled the tactics in me just like in every other player, so we always know exactly what to do. He and his staff are excellent, diligent individuals who truly care about the players, and I have nothing but praise for them," he said.