Arsenal’s Declan Rice stars vs. Chelsea

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 21: Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrates scoring a goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC at Stamford Bridge on October 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 21: Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrates scoring a goal during the Premier League match between Chelsea FC and Arsenal FC at Stamford Bridge on October 21, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)

Arsenal fought back from two goals down against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

When Arsenal signed Declan Rice from West Ham, he was seen as the midfielder the club desperately needed. Through the first nine games of the league season, he has proven to be worth every penny.

Not known for his goal-scoring ability, Rice has already found the back of the net twice this season, which includes his superb curling effort against Chelsea.

After keeper Robert Sanchez’s misplaced pass found its way to Rice, the England international hit his shot first time to kickstart Arsenal’s comeback.

Rice’s goal in the 77th minute was just what Arsenal needed as they chased the game.

After a Cole Palmer penalty and then a Mykhailo Mudryk cross or shot or whatever that was found its way past David Raya, the Gunners needed a way back into the contest – something Rice was able to give.

Still unbeaten after the 2-2 draw against Chelsea, Arteta would have to be happy with his team’s position after nine games.

Still yet to really “click” this season, the fact that Arsenal are joint-second means that when things do start to come together, the Gunners could prove difficult to stop.

Up next for the Gunners is an away Champions League clash against Sevilla midweek.