Declan Rice has earned the nickname “The Horse” from his teammates at Arsenal, and his outstanding performance in the 2-0 victory against Bayer Leverkusen further justified that title.
This season, Rice has been a key player for Arsenal, consistently delivering all-action performances every three days as the team battles for silverware on four different fronts.
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On Tuesday night, the England midfielder scored a stunning goal, curling a powerful shot into the bottom corner, which helped Arsenal secure a commanding two-goal aggregate lead with less than half an hour remaining. This goal allowed manager Mikel Arteta to rest crucial players ahead of the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City this Sunday.
Among those who remained on the pitch for the entire match was the 27-year-old Rice, who has logged the third-most minutes of any outfield player for Arsenal this season, trailing only his midfield partner Martin Zubimendi and the injured Jurrien Timber. He has started 37 of his 43 appearances this term.
Rice’s goal against Leverkusen, his fifth this season across all competitions, came on the heels of Eberechi Eze’s powerful strike in the first half. Additionally, Rice has contributed 11 assists, with his exceptional corner deliveries proving instrumental for the Gunners.
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“I’m exhausted; it’s been relentless,” Rice remarked to TNT Sport after the match. “We’re still in every competition, so it’s been match after match since October.”
“We manage as best as we can, but it’s challenging. We always find ways to win, and that’s what matters. People often ask where I draw my energy from, and I just tap into another burst of energy,” he added.
Last season, Rice scored two memorable free-kicks against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals of the same competition, and his goal against Leverkusen also came from outside the area with a powerful side-footed strike.
“I positioned myself in front of the Leverkusen defender; my first touch set me up perfectly, and there was only one option—I had to go for it,” Rice described. “You find the strength within to keep fighting and making those tackles.”
Rice: The Soul of the Team
Rice and Zubimendi have formed a crucial partnership in Arsenal’s midfield.
Their roles have become even more vital amid captain Martin Odegaard’s injury struggles this season.
Both players were given a rare break during the FA Cup fifth round victory over Mansfield Town, but with a hectic schedule ahead, their fitness will be essential.
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Their solid presence in front of Arsenal’s defense was evident again during the win against Leverkusen, showcasing Rice’s stamina and effectiveness at both ends of the pitch.
“He was phenomenal, along with the rest of the team,” Arteta praised. “I spoke of their spirit—it’s the soul of our team. The way they pursue every ball and the passion they exhibit is remarkable. Performing at that level every three days is incredibly demanding.”
Former Arsenal defender Matt Upson echoed that sentiment on BBC Radio 5 Live, stating, “Declan Rice hardly gets a break; he plays in nearly every match and consistently delivers top performances. It’s remarkable. Physically, he’s an absolute machine.”
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Arsenal currently sits nine points clear at the top of the Premier League, reached the Champions League quarter-finals, and advanced to the same stage in the FA Cup.
Having not won a trophy for six years, the Gunners have a chance to end that drought in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley this Sunday.
“We need to be ready for it. We have the momentum right now,” Rice emphasized. “Whenever we play, we feel capable of winning. When we head to Wembley, we know our fans will support us, and we will be prepared.”
“There’s no time to dwell on results; we just keep moving forward. The more we win, the higher our energy stays, and that’s what makes it enjoyable.”