Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has declared Declan Rice as one of the best midfielders in the world, following Rice's stellar performance in their recent match against Bournemouth. The Gunners secured a 3-2 comeback win at the Vitality Stadium, with Rice netting a crucial second-half double.

Arsenal had a challenging start, with Bournemouth taking an early lead. However, Gabriel Magalhães quickly equalized, setting the stage for Rice's heroics. Rice, who missed the previous game against Aston Villa due to a knee injury, showcased his importance to the team with two well-taken goals. His first goal came nine minutes after the interval, followed by a second in the 71st minute, marking his first brace in 296 Premier League appearances.

Arteta praised Rice's continuous development and impact on the team. "Declan is constantly adding things to his game, and his role in the team, and I don't see where he can stop because he can still improve in a lot of areas and he wants to improve," Arteta stated. He also highlighted Rice's disappointment at missing the Villa match and his determination to play against Bournemouth despite not being fully fit.

Rice's consistent performance and versatility have been key to Arsenal's success this season. Known for his stamina, tackling ability, and ball-carrying skills, Rice has become a vital figure in Arsenal's midfield. Beyond his defensive contributions, Rice has also demonstrated his ability to contribute in attack, as evidenced by his recent goals. According to Squawka, Rice currently leads the way for central midfielders in the Premier League, with a Squawka Score of 75%.

The win against Bournemouth extends Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League to six points, putting them in a strong position in the title race. Rice's performance has further solidified his reputation as a world-class midfielder and a potential candidate for Premier League player of the season. Some have described Rice as Arsenal's "beating heart", highlighting his influence across the entire pitch. Others have noted that Rice's freedom to attack has been made possible by the addition of Martin Zubimendi, who provides control and stability in the midfield.

With Arsenal competing for major honors, Rice's role in midfield will be crucial. His ability to protect the defense, progress the ball, and influence the tempo of matches makes him an indispensable asset to the team. As Arteta noted, Rice's consistency and desire to improve are what set him apart, making him a truly special player.