‘Bring on Man City’: Declan Rice Rallies Arsenal Ahead of Title Showdown

Declan Rice has thrown down the gauntlet ahead of Arsenal’s crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City, insisting the Gunners are ready for the challenge after sealing their place in back-to-back European semi-finals.

Speaking after Arsenal’s tense 0-0 draw with Sporting at the Emirates, which secured a 1-0 aggregate win, Rice was emphatic about the team’s mindset.

‘Of course, you have to win every game. We want to win every game in the Premier League. Our record this year has been amazing in all competitions. It’s why we play the game. It’s a game of football at the end of the day. [It’s about] how much you want it, so I know I’ll be ready, I know the boys will be ready, so let’s go,’ he said.

The England midfielder dismissed any frustration over the stalemate, focusing instead on the achievement of reaching another semi-final.

‘Frustrating? No, we just got to a semi-final, positivity all the way. Who cares what people think? All that matters is what this group think, what the manager thinks and we’re in another semi-final. I’m delighted.’

Rice also addressed the scrutiny surrounding the team in recent weeks: ‘Like being at any other top club, there’s noise with everything. This is Arsenal football club, there’s noise with every game. If you don’t play well, if you don’t play good, take it with a pinch of salt and keep moving. Bring on the last few weeks. It’s a rollercoaster. Nobody’s going to hand you anything in this game. Let’s keep going strong.’