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9th October 2023
12:36pm BST
Arsenal made a huge statement on Sunday as they beat Manchester City to go joint top of the table heading into the international break.
City fell to their third defeat in four games as Gabriel Martinelli came off the bench to score a late winner for Arsenal.
Martinelli’s effort deflected off Nathan Ake in the 86th minute to secure a massive three points for Mikel Arteta’s men, who moved two points clear of last season's Premier League champions.
Several players in the Arsenal squad were vital to the win at the Emirates Stadium including Declan Rice, who produced a vital tackle that was pivotal to helping the Gunners hold on to the win.
The 24-year-old has been a welcome addition to the Arsenal side and proved his worth once again as he rushed back to slide and swipe the ball away from Matheus Nunes, who looked to drive Man City forward as they went in search of an equaliser.
His defensive efforts were met with rapturous applause and after the game, Rice was praised across social media.
One person said: "From his clearance off the line in the 4th minute to this tackle at the end, Declan Rice was a monster for Arsenal. Another man of the match performance in a big game, and it’s safe to say he give absolutely everything for his team. £100m bargain.
"That Declan Rice tackle in the 2nd half. I was in awe. What a midfielder man," said a second.
"Declan Rice really showed why I wanted him at Man City. Physicality was lacking in City's midfield but the qualities he displayed: uncanny sense for the tackle, one-man transition stopper, force of nature while carrying the ball. He's immense," another said.
A fourth added: "That Declan Rice tackle is living in my head rent free."
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