Overview
- Declan Rice delivered back-to-back man-of-the-match performances in Arsenal's Champions League quarter-final victory over Real Madrid, showcasing his dominance against elite opposition.
- Rice's evolving tactical role under Mikel Arteta has seen him transition from a defensive midfielder to a versatile box-to-box player with attacking responsibilities, including set-piece duties.
- Arsenal will host Paris Saint-Germain in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, with Rice expected to anchor the midfield in Thomas Partey's absence due to suspension.
- PSG's midfield trio of João Neves, Fabián Ruiz, and Vitinha presents a significant challenge, requiring Rice's defensive steel and adaptability to control the game.
- Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya has hailed Rice as one of the top three midfielders in the world, emphasizing his leadership and all-around abilities heading into this pivotal clash.