Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has praised manager Mikel Arteta’s strong leadership following their Carabao Cup semi-final win over Chelsea. Rice said Mikel Arteta “controls everything” at the club, highlighting the boss’s influence from top to bottom. This came after a tense 1-0 victory in the second leg at the Emirates, securing a 4-2 aggregate win and a spot in the final.
The Hard-Fought Victory Over Chelsea
The match was a London derby full of drama. Arsenal held a slim lead from the first leg and faced a tough Chelsea side. Both teams battled hard, but no goals came until the 97th minute. The substitute Kai Havertz, who once played for Chelsea, scored on a quick counter-attack to seal the win. Arsenal’s defense stood firm, keeping a clean sheet despite Chelsea’s pressure.
Declan Rice, named Player of the Match, admitted the game was exhausting. He told CBS Sports he felt “shattered” due to the busy schedule and Chelsea’s talented players making them work hard. Credit to Chelsea’s new manager for changing tactics that caused problems, but Arsenal’s backline was “incredible.” This win ended Arsenal’s run of semi-final losses and marked their first major final in six years.
In his post-match interview, Rice gave a clear view of Arteta’s power at Arsenal. He said, “Our manager has total control of everything, from top to bottom of the football club!” He added that everyone listens to Arteta and believes in his work. This 15-word statement shows how Arteta sets high standards and keeps the team focused.
Declan Rice explained that the squad talked before the game about wanting to reach Wembley badly. It’s been years since Arsenal were in a final, and this motivation helped them push through. Arteta’s control ensures no room for mistakes, which has been key to their success.
Arteta’s Impact on the Team
Mikel Arteta has changed Arsenal a lot since taking over. From a team struggling to one challenging for titles, his leadership is clear. Rice, who joined from West Ham, has fit in well and credits Arteta for adjusting his role to give more freedom on the pitch.
The manager’s strict approach means the team manages games better, even when not playing their best. This maturity was shown against Chelsea, where they ground out a result. Arteta called the night “magical” and like “vitamins” for the busy schedule ahead.
A Funny Slip of the Tongue
During the interview with pundit Troy Deeney, Rice had a light moment. He accidentally said “we had the league” instead of “the lead in the tie.” Deeney joked, “The league already?” and Rice laughed, saying “My bad.” It hinted at Arsenal’s strong Premier League position, where they lead by six points. Fans loved the honest mistake, showing Rice’s focus on bigger goals.
🗣️ Declan Rice: “Our manager has total control from bottom to top of the football club. Everyone listens to him, you can’t step out of line. We all believe in his work.” 😤❤️
pic.twitter.com/uwjGVK4ijc
— DailyAFC (@DailyAFC) February 3, 2026
Reactions from Fans and Pundits
Fans and experts praised Rice’s words. It shows unity at Arsenal, with players fully behind Arteta. Pundits like Jamie Redknapp have said Arsenal could win multiple trophies, and Rice’s comment backs that confidence.
Social media buzzed with support, calling Arteta a “winning machine.” Rice’s praise highlights how Arteta’s control has made Arsenal a top team again.
Looking to the Future
Arsenal now face either Manchester City or Newcastle in the Carabao Cup final on March 22. With the Premier League lead, Champions League progress, and FA Cup still on, the season looks bright. Rice’s comment boosts morale, showing belief in Arteta’s plan.
Challenges remain, like injuries and tough fixtures, but this win and leadership praise suggest Arsenal are ready. As Rice said, they believe in the work, and fans hope for silverware soon.
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