Declan Rice has stated his preferred midfield position for both club and country. The Arsenal star feels “unstoppable” when given the freedom to impact the game in multiple phases. His comments follow England’s recent victory. He also touched on how the Arsenal manager is utilizing him this season.
Declan Rice reveals preferred Arsenal position
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has revealed the position where he now feels ‘unstoppable’ while playing for club and country at the highest level. Rice played 69 minutes in England’s 3-0 friendly victory over Wales. During that match, he captained the Three Lions, an achievement which he labelled “an honour” on Instagram following the win.
The former West Ham United midfielder joined the Gunners in a £105 million deal back in July 2023. Since then, he has established himself as one of the world’s best midfielders. Many consider him pivotal to his club and country’s chances of silverware in the immediate future.
What makes Declan Rice feel ‘unstoppable’ for Arsenal
Speaking after the game, the 26-year-old revealed his preferred position, after months of fan debate. He also revealed what makes him feel “unstoppable” during games. “I can play number six or number eight. I think now I am more of a box-to-box number eight,” Rice said. “The manager has adjusted my position at Arsenal a bit this year, given me a bit more freedom to drop deep but also get in the box when I can.”
“It is the same with Thomas. I think that really suits me on the left side of midfield. Being able to get back, being an all-round action midfielder is what I want to be, and I am just enjoying my football.” As a result, Declan Rice feels he can dominate matches.
Mikel Arteta’s influence on Declan Rice
“I have got two managers who lay it out really easily with the game plan, what I have to do and where I have to be,” Declan Rice stated. “Obviously, I am the one who has to go and execute it, but when you have confidence in football, you feel unstoppable at times.”
“I ended the season really strong last year and probably didn’t start one or two games of this season as good as I wanted, but I have picked up my form now. I feel really strong and I feel fit, really confident in my game and hopefully the only way is up from here for England and Arsenal.”
Arsenal and Norway captain Martin Ødegaard has travelled to Oslo for his nation’s game against Israel despite his recent injury. Ethan Nwaneri put in an excellent performance including two assists as England U21s beat Moldova 4-0 on Friday. Arsenal have been handed a suspension following their FA Cup third-round tie against Manchester United last season.
Declan Rice’s form is crucial for Arsenal’s ambitions this season. His preferred role allows him to impact both defensively and in attack. Therefore, Mikel Arteta will be keen to keep him fit and firing on all cylinders.
