Declan Rice celebrates on the pitch after the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London, England, September 3, 2023. /CFP
Declan Rice's acquisition was specifically intended for matches of this nature, for moments that demand his presence.
Such was the case when Arsenal found themselves grappling with considerable frustration against Manchester United. In fact, there were fleeting concerns that the Gunners might face defeat until the decisive intervention of the Video Assistant Referee. The substitute, Alejandro Garnacho, believed he had secured the winning goal for the Red Devil in the 88th minute, only to have it disallowed due to a marginal offside.
Rice then emerged as the protagonist in the waning moments of the added time. Positioned at the far post during a corner, he seized the opportunity to strike. With precision and finesse, he skillfully navigated past United keeper Andre Onana, utilizing a subtle yet pivotal deflection off Jonny Evans. This pivotal contribution proved to be the decisive moment that ultimately tilted the scales in favor of Arsenal
Declan Rice reacts after scoring during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London, England, September 3, 2023. /CFP
Throughout the game, Rice emerged as the standout performer, exuding composure and instilling a sense of order amidst a contest marred by palpable tension. His commanding presence on the pitch brought a much-needed sense of stability and control, elevating the overall quality of the showdown.
His remarkable display on Sunday serves as a vivid reminder of why Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta deemed his 105 million pounds ($138 million) signing, a paramount priority during the summer transfer window.
Indeed, there has been no room for doubt regarding the 24-year-old's sensational ability and mental fortitude in navigating the weight of his substantial price tag and heightened expectations.
"Arsenal is a massive club and you feel the pressure, but I try to put in performances," beamed Rice after the vital win. "I am eager to learn and improve and we want to push to the next level. Everyone's been amazing. I like to have a laugh and speak to people and I've settled in well."
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gestures on the touchline during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium in London, England, September 3, 2023. /CFP
"We work and do everything we do every day for moments like this," added Arteta. "This is sport at the top level, it is about the small margins. It could have gone either way.
"I am really happy, obviously. They are a great team, really well coached and they make life difficult for you. When we gave the goal away that we did you are always up against it."
The result leaves Arsenal fifth in the table, having secured their third victory in four games. Arteta's side now sit just two points behind the league leaders Manchester City, which means they still maintain a close proximity to their biggest title rivals, instilling a genuine sense of optimism as they approach the upcoming international break.
Manchester United's Marcus Rashford applauds the fans following defeat in the Premier League match at the Emirates Stadium, London, England, September 3, 2023. /CFP
As for United, this match proved to be a humbling experience. Despite taking the lead in the 27th minute through Marcus Rashford, their advantage was swiftly nullified as Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard promptly equalized mere seconds later. Cue the late drama.
At the final whistle, a wave of relief and jubilation swept over Arsenal fans. The stark contrast to be observed was the corner of United supporters, where an air of despair and disappointment loomed.
United have yet to secure a Premier League victory against a prominent rival under Erik ten Hag. Arsenal, however, have emerged triumphant in their last three meetings with United at Emirates Stadium. The last time Arsenal achieved such a feat was back in 1991.