Declan Rice, who cost Arsenal £105 million and boasts experience in two European Championship finals with England, has truly made his mark on the global stage in the Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid. Despite his impressive career, including a European trophy with West Ham, it was in these two crucial legs that Rice proved his class.
In the first leg at the Emirates, Rice stunned fans with two brilliant free-kicks. But it was in the return leg at the Bernabeu that the 26-year-old really announced himself. Arsenal triumphed 2-1, securing a semi-final clash with Paris St-Germain, and Rice’s performance left no room for doubt about his ability.
“He turned the game around,” said Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. “He was immense, he made a difference.”
Despite Arsenal holding a three-goal advantage from the first leg, there were concerns the second leg might become tense. But Rice was unfazed. The midfielder dominated both defensively, breaking up Madrid’s attacks, and offensively, driving Arsenal forward.
“Declan Rice was up against Jude Bellingham, and there was only one winner. He was absolutely magnificent,” said former Arsenal defender Martin Keown.
The night had a tense moment when Rice was initially booked for a foul on Kylian Mbappe in the penalty area. However, a VAR review overturned the decision, allowing Rice to continue his stellar performance.
“These two games have cemented his place among the best midfielders on the planet,” said former Arsenal centre-back Matthew Upson.
Rio Ferdinand also praised Rice’s contribution, saying, “He’s not just competed; he’s run the show in both games. He’s put himself in another bracket.”
Across both legs, Rice made the most interceptions (five) and had the joint-most shots on target (four). He has seven goals in all competitions this season, matching his career best.
His performance has solidified his place among the world’s top midfielders, with Arsenal aiming for more. Rice himself acknowledged the significance of the win, calling it “a historic night” for the club. But with PSG awaiting in the semi-finals and key midfielder Thomas Partey suspended, Arsenal still have work to do.
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