Declan Rice has offered insight into Arsenal’s recent struggles in front of goal, attributing their dip in scoring form to increasingly defensive approaches from opponents.
The Gunners have endured a difficult spell in attack, scoring just three goals in their last five matches across all competitions.
This downturn has coincided with a slight wobble in results, with the Premier League leaders recording only one win in that run.
Despite the criticism surrounding their attacking output, Rice insisted the team remains committed to finding solutions and improving their efficiency in the final third.
The Gunners were held to a goalless draw by Sporting CP in the Champions League last night, but progressed to the semi-finals 1-0 on aggregate.
“Of course you want to be able to score goals,” Rice told TNT Sports. “But, most teams that come here, we play against 5-4-1 every time, there is a bit of a perception with that.
“Every team we have played this year either changed from a four to a five.”
“They defend against us, and the space is not there. That’s the actual truth, but we still have to find ways to score and break it down.”
Rice acknowledged the quality of opposition in domestic and European competitions, stressing that Arsenal must continue to adapt.
“But we play against top players every week,” he added. “We keep going, playing well, and getting over the line.
Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham United in 2023, has established himself as a key figure for the Gunners.
He played the full match as Arsenal advanced to the semi-finals of the Champions League, marking the first time in the club’s history that they have reached that stage in consecutive seasons.
The 27-year-old has delivered consistently impressive performances, registering five goals and 11 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions.
He will be eager to help the team overcome their recent dip in results, particularly ahead of a crucial Premier League clash at Manchester City on Sunday.
Arsenal currently lead the standings with 70 points. They have a six-point advantage over second-placed City, who have a game in hand.
The Gunners will aim to extend their lead and strengthen their position in the Premier League title race.
Stats from Sofascore.