Declan Rice has singled out midfield partner Martin Zubimendi for special praise following Arsenal's hard-fought 3-2 victory over Bournemouth on Saturday, a result that sent the Gunners six points clear at the Premier League summit.
Nervy Win Extends Arsenal's Lead
The match at the Vitality Stadium began in the worst possible fashion for Mikel Arteta's side. After just 10 minutes, a misplaced pass from defender Gabriel Magalhaes was intercepted by Bournemouth's Evanilson, who slotted into an empty net with goalkeeper David Raya stranded. Gabriel redeemed himself six minutes later, heading home an equaliser to restore parity before the break.
The second half belonged to Declan Rice, whose two goals appeared to have secured a comfortable win for the visitors. However, a superb late strike from Bournemouth's Junior Kroupi set up a tense finale, but Arsenal held firm to claim a crucial three points and extend their advantage over Manchester City.
Rice Lauds Zubimendi's 'Brain' and Composure
While Rice's brace grabbed the headlines, the England international was quick to highlight the contribution of Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi, who delivered another commanding performance. Rice emphasised the challenge of adapting from La Liga and praised the £60 million summer signing's intelligence.
"I think don't underestimate to come from La Liga to come into this team," Rice told Sky Sports. "He's not the biggest player or the strongest, but his brain, the way it works, allows the team to function in such a good way. He's been unreal."
Rice went on to detail the qualities Zubimendi brings to the Arsenal engine room, highlighting his composure and technical ability, which have already made him Spain's first-choice defensive midfielder. "The way he gets on the ball... you see the quality he brings, the calmness, the composure, the way he thinks," Rice added. "It's been great to play with him. I'm learning a lot and we've built a really good partnership."
Striker Gyokeres Also Earns Praise
Rice also offered strong support for striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has found goals harder to come by recently, scoring just once in his last nine appearances. The midfielder explained the unique challenges the Swedish forward faces.
"It's tough for him, because he's got two defenders on him all game, all over him," said Rice. He pointed to Gyokeres' crucial role in the build-up to one of Arsenal's goals as evidence of his value, even when not scoring. Rice insisted that defenders' extreme focus on stopping Gyokeres is a testament to his world-class reputation.
"Trust me, he's doing unbelievably for us, we wouldn't be where we are without him," Rice concluded, backing the striker to start finding the net regularly once again.
The win solidifies Arsenal's position at the top of the table as the title race intensifies, with the burgeoning midfield partnership between Rice and Zubimendi appearing to be a key factor in their success.
