Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has delivered a powerful defence of manager Mikel Arteta, warning critics not to judge the Spaniard too soon and boldly predicting he will become one of football's all-time great managers.
Rice's Glowing Endorsement
The England international, who has earned 72 caps for his country, expressed his conviction that Arteta is destined to 'win everything' at Arsenal. This strong vote of confidence comes as the Gunners prepare to face bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur in Sunday's North London Derby, sitting top of the Premier League table.
Rice shared his admiration for the 43-year-old manager, stating: "I think I'm very lucky to say that I've been able to play under him. This is the manager who is young in his managerial career still but I think when it's all said and done, he will go down as one of the best."
Arteta's Tactical Mastery
The midfielder provided fascinating insight into Arteta's meticulous approach to preparation, developed during his time learning under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City before transitioning into management.
Rice elaborated on how Arteta's methods have transformed his game: "It's only the start like I said, don't judge him now, judge him at the end when he's won everything because he will. He is just incredible, tactically, everything he does, the way he sets you up."
He described the profound impact of Arteta's coaching: "I go on to the football pitch and all I have to worry about is playing football - as I know everything tactically. It's like a remote control in my head, he's built it into me, like he's built into every player. Every time you go on the pitch, you know what you're doing that's down to him."
Injury Concerns Ahead of Derby
Arteta faces his next crucial test against Tottenham with significant defensive concerns. Brazilian centre-back Gabriel will be sidelined for weeks after picking up an injury while on international duty with Brazil during their victory over Senegal.
The Arsenal manager confirmed the setback: "Gabi unfortunately picked up an injury with the national team - he will be out for weeks. We need to have another scan next Wednesday. We will have the timeline much more clearly than we have at the moment."
With Gabriel unavailable, Arteta is considering Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie as potential replacements. Mosquera has Premier League experience this season, featuring seven times including a brief substitute appearance against Sunderland. Ecuador international Hincapie has managed only two league outings so far, both as a substitute.
Despite Arsenal finishing as runners-up in each of the past three campaigns, Rice remains utterly convinced that Arteta will ultimately achieve greatness at the Emirates Stadium, making his endorsement particularly significant as the team prepares for one of their most important fixtures of the season.
