Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on Declan Rice, revealing that the midfielder has the potential to evolve into a long-throw expert, adding yet another dimension to his rapidly expanding skill set. Arteta’s remarks came during his media interaction, highlighted by football journalist Fabrizio Romano on social media.
The Arsenal boss recalled Rice’s impressive ability with set pieces earlier in his career and suggested that the England international is well on track to reach even greater technical levels. “Declan Rice can become a long-throw expert. Remember what he did with set pieces,” Arteta said, pointing to the midfielder’s earlier days when he frequently contributed to dead-ball scenarios.
Arteta further emphasized how significantly Rice has grown over the past few years. “I know how good Declan was at taking set-pieces three or four years ago, and I know how good he is now,” he added, noting the midfielder’s evolution since his breakthrough at West Ham United.
His contributions have extended far beyond his defensive midfield duties, with his passing range, ball-carrying ability, and shooting from distance becoming key attacking weapons for the Gunners this season.
