Declan Rice has three assists this season, surpassing last season's total
Declan Rice's role at Arsenal has evolved, with three assists in open play already this season.
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Mikel Arteta has revealed a significant shift in Declan Rice's role at Arsenal, moving away from his previous designation as the team's 'lighthouse'. In a recent conversation, Arteta explained that Rice is now expected to take on a different responsibility on the pitch. This change follows Rice's impressive performance in a 2-1 victory over Leeds, where he assisted Bruno Guimaraes' winning goal, prompting Arteta to highlight the need for Rice to prove his new capabilities.
Previously regarded as a focal point in the team, Rice's 'lighthouse' role symbolised a traditional defensive midfielder, providing clarity and direction. However, Arteta's comments suggest that Rice is now being asked to contribute more actively in attacking situations. The midfielder has already shown this evolution, with three assists in the current league season, surpassing his total from the entire previous campaign.
Rice's passing ability has notably improved, particularly in open play. He has made significant strides in his attacking influence, with a marked increase in final-third entries and line-breaking passes. This season, he has become more adept at finding gaps in opposition defences, leading the Premier League in line-breaking passes, which indicates a shift towards a more offensive role.
While Rice still retains elements of his previous role, such as making forward runs and being a set-piece threat, he has adapted to a new position at the base of Arsenal's midfield. This adjustment allows other players, like Myles Lewis-Skelly and Guimaraes, to push forward more effectively. The balance between defensive duties and attacking contributions highlights Rice's versatility and the evolution of Arsenal's playing style under Arteta.
Arsenal's attacking approach has transformed, with all their goals this season coming from open play, demonstrating a departure from their previous reliance on set pieces. Rice embodies this change, illustrating how he and the team are evolving together. As Arsenal prepares for their next match against Nottingham Forest, Rice's development will be crucial to their continued success this season.
via Sky Sports