The team of Mikel Arteta appeared to be cruising to a victory that would have put them six points ahead of Manchester City with a lead of two goals. But everything changed when a player they now wish to sign as a record did some quick thinking.
After spotting Kieran Tierney ready to pass to Thomas Partey deep inside the Arsenal half, Rice started running after the Ghanaian to close him down. He made it there just in time to take the ball, bring it into the box, and find the advancing Lucas Paqueta.
Said Benrahma converted the ensuing penalty, which changed the game's momentum away from Arsenal. possibly even that of the championship race. And Rice was the catalyst.
He had hurried to put pressure on Partey earlier in the game. Rice is only attempting to demonstrate to him that he will pursue him, claimed Sky Sports analyst Jamie Carragher during co-commentary. He might soon be vying for a spot on the Arsenal squad as well.
Many of the traits that make Rice so desirable to Arsenal were on display during that section of play: the foresight to recognize the opportunity; the speed and power to get there and emerge with the ball; the composure to set up his teammate and force the penalty.
It also demonstrated how far the 24-year-old's player development has progressed. Rice began his career at West Ham as a center back before switching to a holding midfielder. Now,
He has an unmatched ability to win possession, as Partey can attest.
Rice recovered more balls than any other Premier League player last season, and his 334 total put him far ahead of Rodri of Manchester City in second place. With 63, seven more than the next closest competitor, he also made the most interceptions.
At West Ham, Rice and Tomas Soucek have operated as a double pivot, but with his physical strength and the caliber of his passing over both short and long distances, Rice could be easily utilized as the No. 6 in Arteta's system.
According to David Moyes, that is where he sees himself playing in the long run. "As his career progresses, he may become a proper No 6," he remarked in April.
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