Declan Rice has spoken out about the viral moment captured on camera after Arsenal's defeat at Manchester City in April, hitting back at accusations that he was performing for the cameras. The midfielder was heard saying 'it's not done' following the 2-1 loss at the Etihad Stadium on April 19, a comment that many critics dismissed as mere theatrics.
Rice Responds to Criticism
Speaking to Arsenal's in-house media, Rice addressed the backlash: 'That's the mad thing. It's like 'oh he's saying it for the cameras'... bro there's 100 cameras! I didn't know I'm getting recorded saying that... but it's worked out.' The England international's words proved prophetic as Arsenal went on to win their next four league matches while City dropped points against Everton and Bournemouth.
Arsenal's Title Triumph
The Gunners secured their first Premier League crown since 2004 after City's 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Tuesday night. Eli Junior Kroupi scored the crucial goal for the Cherries, despite Erling Haaland's late equaliser. Jubilant scenes erupted in north London as Arsenal ended 22 years of heartache following three consecutive runners-up finishes.
Mikel Arteta's side could complete a double with the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 30. The Premier League trophy will be presented at Crystal Palace on Sunday, with Arsenal expected to rest key players ahead of the European final.
Arteta's Emotional Reaction
Arteta opened up about his emotions following the title-clinching result: 'It's one of the best feelings I've ever had. I was supposed to be here, at Sobha, watching the game with the boys and the staff, but I couldn't. I went home, I went outside to the garden, I started to build a fire and do some barbecue, so I didn't watch any of it.'
The Spaniard described the moment his son told him the news: 'My oldest son opened the garden door. He started to run towards me, started to cry, gave me a hug and said: 'We are champions, daddy.' Then my other two boys and my wife came over and it was beautiful.'
