Arsenal's Manager Details Strategic Move Utilizing Declan Rice in Central Defensive Role During UCL Draw Against PSV
Arsenal, securing their place in the UCL round of 16, concluded their group stage with a draw against PSV on Tuesday. Despite a 1-1 scoreline, the Gunners remained atop the group standings.
In the second half, Mikel Arteta strategically introduced Declan Rice, substituting him for William Saliba in an unexpected center-back position. This decision surprised fans, especially considering Rice's primary role as a midfielder.
Explaining the tactical shift, Arteta revealed that he aimed to experiment and prepare for potential defensive contingencies, especially in the absence of their first-choice defender, Saliba. The 24-year-old midfielder seamlessly adapted to the defensive role, partnering with Gabriel Magalhaes for the remainder of the game.
Arteta emphasized the team's defensive challenges, noting the absence of key defenders Jurrien Timber and Tomiyasu due to injuries. Speaking on Rice's performance as a center-back, Arteta expressed satisfaction, stating, "We are very short at the back, and I really wanted to try how we would resolve that situation in case of an emergency. He’s played there before, and we have to be prepared to fill the gap in the right way."
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