Declan Rice Unveils Mikel Arteta's Complete Authority at Arsenal Following Chelsea Victory
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has delivered a powerful insight into the managerial influence of Mikel Arteta, describing how the Spaniard "controls everything" at the football club. This significant admission came immediately after the Gunners secured their place in the Carabao Cup final with a hard-fought aggregate victory over London rivals Chelsea.
Arteta's Methodical Approach Secures Wembley Final Berth
The North London side progressed to Wembley with a 4-2 aggregate triumph over their capital counterparts, following a tense second leg at Emirates Stadium that was decided by Kai Havertz's late goal. This followed an earlier 3-2 victory at Stamford Bridge that had placed Arsenal firmly in control of the semi-final tie.
Throughout both legs, Arteta demonstrated his tactical acumen by implementing a more conservative approach during the second encounter, prioritising defensive solidity over expansive attacking play. Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior responded with a defensive five-at-the-back formation, creating a cagey affair that remained goalless until the closing stages.
Rice's Verdict on Arteta's Transformative Influence
Speaking to CBS Sports after the victory, Rice provided a revealing assessment of Arteta's comprehensive authority at Arsenal. "Our manager has total control of everything, from top to bottom of the football club!" the England international declared. "Everyone listens to him, we all believe in his work."
The midfielder also highlighted the significant contribution of defensive coach Gabi Heinze, describing his impact as "unbelievable" and praising the defensive unit that Arteta has methodically constructed. This defensive resilience has become a hallmark of Arsenal's improvement under the Spanish manager's stewardship over recent seasons.
Exhaustion and Euphoria Following Gruelling Schedule
Rice admitted to feeling "shattered" following the demanding fixture schedule, acknowledging Chelsea's quality and the physical demands of the semi-final encounter. "The schedule has been ridiculous and when you're playing Chelsea, who have got so many good players that are constantly making you work, it's not easy," he explained.
Despite the exhaustion, the midfielder expressed immense satisfaction with the team's progression, stating: "Everything we've been building towards over the last few years has come together this season. We're into our first final in a very long time so we need to enjoy the moment."
Arteta's Delight and Immediate Challenges Ahead
Manager Mikel Arteta shared in the celebratory mood following the victory, describing the achievement as "magical" while acknowledging the quality of their opponents. "We are so happy. I think overall, over the last two games, I think we deserved to be through," Arteta stated. "It was a long match, we expected that. We wrapped it up at the end in a beautiful way."
The Arsenal manager specifically praised Kai Havertz for his decisive contribution and the electric reaction from the home supporters, creating a memorable moment at Emirates Stadium.
Fixture Congestion Looms Following Cup Success
The euphoria of reaching their first major final in nearly six years is expected to be brief, with Arsenal facing immediate Premier League challenges against Sunderland and Brentford in quick succession. Further complications arise from fixture rearrangements necessitated by their Wembley final appearance.
Arsenal's scheduled Premier League match against Wolves has been brought forward to later this month, creating additional fixture congestion. This rearrangement subsequently reduces preparation time for the crucial North London Derby against Tottenham, presenting Arteta with significant squad management challenges in the coming weeks.
Despite these logistical hurdles, the Arsenal squad appears unified behind their manager's vision, with Rice's comments highlighting the complete trust and belief that permeates throughout the club under Arteta's leadership.
