Arsenal legend reveals how Arteta is wasting Declan Rice’s talent this season

Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit has expressed his concerns about the way Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is utilizing Declan Rice this season. The former Gunners midfielder believes that Rice is being wasted in a more advanced role and should be playing as a holding midfielder instead.

Speaking to Football.London, Petit said, “Declan Rice’s priority for Arsenal should be to maintain the balance of the side and to win the ball back for his team. He does those things so well. I think he is wasted a bit in that number 8 role where [Granit] Xhaka played last season because he is such a brilliant holding midfielder.”

Arsenal made a statement signing in the summer transfer window by securing the services of 24-year-old Declan Rice from West Ham United for a hefty fee of £105m. However, Petit believes that Arteta needs to rethink his tactics and play Rice in a position that suits his strengths.

Rice has been an integral part of West Ham’s success in recent years, showcasing his ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute the ball effectively from deep midfield positions. Petit’s comments suggest that Arteta may not be getting the best out of the talented midfielder by deploying him further up the pitch.

It remains to be seen whether Arteta will take heed of Petit’s advice and make adjustments to Rice’s role in the team. However, with Arsenal looking to climb up the Premier League table, utilizing Rice effectively could prove crucial in their quest for success this season.