Arteta Says Declan Rice is the Best Midfielder in the World After Scoring Two Goals against Bournemouth

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice. (Arsenal)

JAKARTA - Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta has named Declan Rice as one of the best midfielders in the world today after the England player scored two goals in a 3-2 win over Bournemouth in the 2025/2026 English League continuation, Sunday, January 4, early morning WIB.

The match, which was held at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth, saw Arsenal win thanks to Rice's goal and one goal from Gabriel Magalhaes (16 '). Meanwhile, Bournemouth responded through Evanilson (10') and Eli Junior Kroupi (76').

"For me, Rice is the best. Declan continues to add a lot to his game," Arteta said, quoted from Arsenal's official website.

The Spanish coach considers Rice to be a player who does not hesitate to learn, so his ability improves day by day.

"I don't see where the limit is, because he can still improve in many aspects and he has a strong desire to continue to improve. He is a very vital player for us," said Arteta.

Rice's two goals against Bournemouth came after taking advantage of empty spaces in the opponent's defense. According to Arteta, this shows Rice's quality in finding positions and shooting consistently.

"The way he competed, played and most importantly scored two goals, I think it was incredible. And it was a really big message for the team," Arteta said.

Since joining from West Ham United in 2023, Rice has scored 20 goals and 27 assists from 130 games in all competitions with Arsenal, according to Transfermarkt records.

This season, Rice has contributed eight goals from 25 matches, helping Arsenal to the top of the 2025/2026 English League standings and performing competitively in the UEFA Champions League.

The victory over Bournemouth makes Bukayo Saka and his colleagues even stronger at the top of the English League standings with 48 points from 20 matches, while Bournemouth is in 15th place with 23 points.