Declan Rice reacts as Arsenal share pre-season update
Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal successfully began their pre-season tour with a 1-0 win over AC Milan in Singapore.
The Gunners were unable to break the deadlock in the first half, but Bukayo Saka’s solitary goal in the closing 45 minutes proved enough for the North Londoners to beat Max Allegri’s men on Wednesday, 23 July.
Arteta’s side face Newcastle United on Sunday, 27 July, four days before they lock horns with local rivals Tottenham.
Summer additions Christian Norgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga, and Martin Zubimendi all featured as Arsenal emerged victorious over Milan.
Rice reacts as Arsenal share victory message
Rice featured for 66 minutes against Milan before being replaced by Spain international Mikel Merino, who helped keep the North Londoners’ clean sheet intact.
Meanwhile, Arsenal shared their delight at the victory via Instagram on 23 July: “A winning start in Singapore.”
The Emirates Stadium club’s post attracted a like from Rice, who is set to remain a key figure for Arteta next term.
Viktor Gyokeres addition can help Rice further excel
Football Insider verdict
Amid their so far successful pre-season preparations, Arsenal are closing in on Viktor Gyokeres, as Arteta looks to find the final piece in the jigsaw.
| Declan Rice stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 52 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 10 |
The Gunners have fallen short of both Liverpool and Manchester City in the Premier League title race in recent seasons, thanks to their lack of an out-and-out striker.
But Gyokeres’ imminent signature can put an end to those woes, after he notched 54 goals in 52 appearances across all competitions for Portuguese giants Sporting last term.
Meanwhile, Rice enjoyed a career-best tally of nine goals and 10 assists, having become a more attacking player for Arsenal than at his former club West Ham.
The addition of prolific striker Gyokeres will help Rice further channel his creative ability, which can bolster the North London side’s chances of winning the Premier League title.
Furthermore, the defensive stability added by new holding midfielders Norgaard and Zubimendi should see the ex-West Ham man operating in attacking areas.