Aasif Rahman

Thu 24 April 2025 9:10, UK

Declan Rice shared his frustration with the Arsenal fans following a disappointing draw at the Emirates Stadium to Crystal Palace.

Arsenal were held to a 2-2 draw by Crystal Palace, in what marked their 13th stalemate of the season in a disappointing performance.

The Gunners took the lead through Jakub Kiwior, who powered home a header from a well-delivered free-kick.

But Eberechi Eze responded with a stunning volley to level the score. Leandro Trossard then restored Arsenal’s advantage, only for Jean-Philippe Mateta to catch David Raya off his line with a superb long-range finish that left the home side with just a point.

Controversy surrounded the match as well, with former PGMOL chief Keith Hackett raising concerns over VAR’s decision to rule Gabriel Martinelli’s goal out, which could have been a third goal for Arsenal. The officials deemed the ball had gone out of play in the build-up, much to the frustration of the home support.

Rice started in midfield alongside Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard but couldn’t influence proceedings as effectively as usual.

After the match, he posted a message to supporters reflecting his disappointment with both the result and his own performance, but motivated them for the next game.

Declan Rice urges Arsenal fans to stay positive ahead of PSG clash

The England international shared a message on his Instagram story following the draw, writing: “Frustrating night, but we go again.”

Rice has been in outstanding form recently for Arsenal, claiming two Player of the Match awards against Real Madrid across both legs and rediscovering his rhythm in the Premier League.

While he hasn’t always hit those heights throughout the season, as some Arsenal fans voiced criticism over Rice’s inconsistency, the £100 million midfielder has continued to be a key figure for Mikel Arteta, stepping up in crucial moments.

Despite the underwhelming performance against Crystal Palace, it’s clear that Arsenal already have one eye on their massive Champions League clash against PSG next week.

Arsenal reconsider stance on Thomas Partey amid summer shake-up

For much of the campaign, it looked like Partey would be allowed to leave the club, especially with his contract set to expire this summer.

However, reports now suggest Arsenal are preparing to offer Partey a new deal following a string of strong performances, even as speculation continues about the arrival of a new central midfielder.

With Jorginho also expected to depart at the end of the season, the Gunners appear reluctant to let both of their experienced defensive midfielders go. The shift in stance indicates Partey may now be part of Arteta’s plans going forward into next season.