Declan Rice acknowledged Arsenal’s recent struggles, expressing disappointment following their 2-1 loss to Fulham. Mikel Arteta’s squad aimed for a rebound after an unexpected defeat to West Ham, with hopes of reclaiming the top spot in the Premier League. Unfortunately, they fell short once again, and a potential five-point gap behind Liverpool looms if the Reds secure a victory in their upcoming game.
Reflecting on the match, Rice conveyed his frustration on Sky Sports, labeling it as “very disappointing” and emphasizing the team’s subpar performance in the last two games. These results deviated from the standards set earlier in the season, notably after a promising draw against Liverpool.
Rice acknowledged the team’s positive form until recently, particularly after the Liverpool match, where they believed they could build momentum. The consecutive defeats, however, posed a challenge that is difficult to digest.
He highlighted the team’s awareness of their recent inadequacies, emphasizing the contrast with their earlier strong performances. In addressing the team’s shortcomings, Rice pointed out the need for change, recognizing that two poor performances in a row are unacceptable for a team aspiring to win the league. He also acknowledged signs of psychological fatigue among the players, stressing the importance of revitalizing the squad with new additions in the upcoming transfer window.
The midfielder stressed the urgency of making strategic purchases next month to rejuvenate the team and counteract the recent decline. While praising the players’ past accomplishments, he noted the necessity of reinforcing the squad for sustained success. The looming fixture congestion leaves little room for significant changes, making it crucial for the players to quickly recover and adapt to the demanding schedule.
Rice’s assessment underlines the team’s collective responsibility to address the current dip in form. He recognizes the challenges ahead, emphasizing the need for a swift turnaround to maintain competitiveness in the ongoing season. As Arsenal navigates the busy schedule, the call for reinforcements and a renewed focus becomes paramount to revive their title aspirations.
