The standout performer for the Gunners, has assumed a pivotal role as the club’s primary corner and free-kick taker, contributing significantly to their status as the Premier League’s top scorers from set pieces. In Arsenal’s recent 6-0 triumph over West Ham, Declan Rice’s precise corner enabled William Saliba to find the net, while his expertly taken free kick set up Gabriel’s goal, elevating Arsenal’s set-piece tally for the season to 16.
Despite initially taking only three corners in the first 20 Premier League matches, Rice has taken on a more prominent role in recent games, delivering a total of 12 corners in the last four matches and providing three assists, notably contributing to Arsenal’s attacking prowess against West Ham. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch tall, Rice poses a significant aerial threat himself.
However, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta attributes Rice’s increased involvement in set-piece duties to a strategic decision made following intensive training sessions with set-piece coach Nicolas Jover during the winter break in Dubai.
Arteta praised Rice’s dedication and consistency in practice, highlighting his exceptional delivery quality as a valuable asset in threatening the opponent’s defense. He emphasized Rice’s versatility and potential for further development, expressing confidence in the midfielder’s ability to continue evolving and making a substantial impact on the team’s performance.
Acknowledging Rice’s multifaceted contributions, Arteta emphasized the importance of utilizing his abilities both offensively and defensively. He highlighted Rice’s potential to influence transition moments and create opportunities for Arsenal in crucial phases of the game.
Arteta also underscored the significance of Rice’s set-piece delivery in opening up games, particularly against opponents employing low defensive blocks. He emphasized the importance of flooding the box with attacking players to create chaotic situations for the opposition and increase the likelihood of scoring goals.
Looking ahead, Arsenal welcomes back fit-again Fabio Vieira and Thomas Partey for their upcoming fixture against Burnley. Vieira, returning from injury, aims to make a positive impact after his previous encounter with Burnley ended with a red card. Arteta aims to maintain Arsenal’s impressive form, characterized by four consecutive victories and a remarkable goal-scoring record of 16 goals scored and only two conceded since the start of 2024.
