05-Jan-2026 (#33)

Rice is Among the World's Elite!

Declan Rice, after that match-winning brace against Bournemouth, has earned himself some serious praise from the gaffer. Mikel Arteta didn't hold back, straight-up calling him "one of the best midfielders in world football." And honestly? Watching him since he joined, it's hard to disagree.

Arteta highlighted Rice's constant evolution and his knack for stepping up when it matters most. It's not just about the goals, though that brace against Bournemouth was certainly a statement! It's about his presence, his leadership, and that sheer determination to improve. He's become such a pivotal player for us, and it's clear the manager sees him as someone who can still reach even greater heights. It’s exciting to think about what else he can bring to this Arsenal side as the season heats up! With Rice leading the charge, I'm feeling pretty good about our chances. What a player!

Related reads:

Arteta hails Rice as one of the world’s best after Bournemouth brace

After watching Declan Rice bag his first Premier League brace at Bournemouth – goals that secured a valuable three points for Arsenal – Mikel Arteta was quick to agree the England international is one of the best midfielders in world football. Rice has been a regular presence on shortlists for the game’s biggest individual honours […]

"We're going to get more" - Arteta ready to push Rice to new heights

After Wednesday’s barnstorming win over Bayern Munich, Declan Rice, who was immense on the night, openly declared that his game has hit a new level. “I’m probably playing the best football of my career,” he told CBS Sports. “I feel so confident, every time I’m training, every time I’m stepping on the pitch, I’m probably […]

Declan Rice is the Premier League’s best set-piece taker

Arsenal midfielder has been twice as effective from dead balls as any other footballer in England’s top flight over the past two years

‘His impact is huge’: Arteta hails Rice’s attacking evolution before Chelsea test

The head coach has backed his £105m midfielder to improve even further before Premier League leaders Arsenal visit second-placed Chelsea on Sunday

Another Coach Bites the Dust...

Well, well, well. It seems the managerial merry-go-round at Chelsea has spun once again, and this time it's Enzo Maresca who's been unceremoniously dismounted. Barely into his tenure, and after a surprisingly short stint, he's out. The whispers suggest a clash of ambitions and work ethic with the club's hierarchy, which, let's be honest, sounds like a familiar tune for any club that seems to be perpetually in flux.

Similarly, Ruben Amorim, who arrived with such promise and a reputation for a distinct tactical identity, has been shown the door at Manchester United after just 14 months. It's a familiar story for United fans, isn't it? A manager brought in with high hopes, a clear vision, and then... well, things just don't quite click.

For us Gunnners, it's a stark reminder of the stability and clear vision we've thankfully enjoyed under Mikel Arteta. While every club has its ups and downs, seeing such frequent upheaval at a rival is certainly... interesting. We'll be keeping an eye on who they bring in next – it's always a drama to follow, even if it's not our drama!

This article also rightly points out, in today's game, the manager isn't always the one wielding the most power. The real decision-makers, the sporting directors and owners, often seem to operate in the shadows. Incidentally both the managers had recently voiced their dissatisfaction against the hierarchy during their respective press conferences. It makes you wonder, when things go wrong, shouldn't those who identify the talent and shape the strategy also be the ones fronting up to the media?

Related reads:

Maresca and Amorim faced the music – those who wield real power should do the same | Will Unwin

The manager is no longer the most important person at a football club – perhaps it is time for those above them to front up to the media

Maresca out at Chelsea with immediate effect - CBS Sports

Maresca has been in contact with Manchester City over possibly succeeding Pep Guardiola if he leaves

How Enzo Maresca suddenly plunged Chelsea into chaos — and what could come next

Chelsea 2-0 Everton: Maresca claimed he had been through the ‘worst 48 hours’ since taking charge and said ‘so many people’ – not including the fans – ‘didn’t support us’

Manchester United reached the right conclusion with Ruben Amorim but the way they got there does not inspire confidence

Sacking a coach due to an outburst at his bosses rather than the (lack of) results raises questions of competency for those operating behind the scenes at Old Trafford.

Ruben Amorim sacked by Manchester United a day after incendiary comments - CBS Sports

Amorim had Man United in sixth place in the Premier League, but his comments on Sunday appeared to be the final straw