Declan Rice praised the struggling Viktor Gyökeres as one of the world’s top strikers, asserting that Arsenal cannot end their 22-year quest for a Premier League title without his presence.
In Arsenal’s 3-2 victory over Bournemouth—marking their fifth consecutive league win—Rice contributed two goals, helping the team maintain its lead in the standings.
Conversely, Gyökeres extended his goal drought from open play to nine matches as he was substituted in the second half.
This season, the Sweden international has scored in just four of his 18 league outings, and his total of seven goals across all competitions falls short of expectations for a player who netted 97 times in 102 matches for Sporting CP before joining the Emirates Stadium.
Nevertheless, Gyökeres played a crucial role in the buildup to Rice’s opening goal, managing to draw in four Bournemouth defenders.
Rice commented on Gyökeres: “It’s tough for him, as he’s often marked by two defenders throughout the match. He has to leverage his strength and do everything he can for the team. His run from Gabriel Martinelli‘s flick created the opportunity that ultimately led to my first goal. That moment was crucial in turning the tide of the game.”
“I see the power behind his strikes, and when he finds that space and the ball is at his feet, he’s guaranteed to score.”
“Right now, defenders in the Premier League are certainly aware of Gyökeres’ abilities, because he truly is one of the best strikers in the world. Trust me, he has been phenomenal for us, and we wouldn’t be in our current position without him.”
Having recovered from a knee injury that sidelined him from Arsenal’s midweek victory over Aston Villa, Rice returned with an impressive performance, marking his first two-goal game in the Premier League after 296 appearances.
Post-match, manager Mikel Arteta suggested that the 26-year-old England international should now be regarded as one of the best midfielders globally.
Rice added: “Missing the Aston Villa game was frustrating, so it felt great to come back, contribute to the team, and score twice. The fans will be thrilled, and I’m also happy to support this special team. If we all contribute together, I’m confident that great things await us.”
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Bournemouth, however, found a bright spot amid their 11-match league winless streak with Junior Kroupi‘s stunning 25-yard strike that left Arsenal feeling the pressure in the closing minutes.
Cherries midfielder Marcus Tavernier praised his 19-year-old teammate, stating: “Junior possesses extraordinary talent. His future is incredibly bright, and today he showcased why he’s regarded as such a promising player in the football world.”