By Liberty Nicholson-Hulse
Declan Rice has framed Arsenal’s upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester City as the defining moment of their title push.
With just six games of the season remaining, Mikel Arteta’s side are looking to strengthen their position at the top of the table.
Key test awaits at City
Arsenal head into the weekend off the back of securing a place in the Champions League semi-finals, following a 0-0 draw against Sporting Lisbon at the Emirates.
Attention now turns back to the league, where a trip to face Pep Guardiola’s in-form City carries significant weight in the title race.
“When you’re watching the Premier League as a kid, you see these big matches, these title-defining moments,” Rice stated ahead of the showdown.
“It comes down to if you’re going to be ready and how much do you want it.
“They’ve obviously been in really good form recently. No-one’s going to hand you anything in this league.”
Arsenal driven by Wembley loss
The Gunners were beaten by City in last month’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley, and Rice admitted that result is still fresh in the players’ minds.
“It hurts losing every final. To see them lift that, it did hurt,” he said.
“There is that fire in the stomach to eradicate that on the weekend.”
Amid the build-up surrounding the fixture, Rice emphasised that responsibility lies firmly with the players to deliver on the pitch.
“There’s been a lot of noise, but, ultimately, it’s down to us as players,” the 27-year-old noted.
“It’s why we’re professionals. It’s why we play this game and yes, to go there and win will be a massive statement.
“The boys are ready. We spoke as a group and we know what’s required. Bring it on.”
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Rice over recent illness setback
Rice also confirmed he is fully fit for the match after overcoming illness earlier in the week.
The England midfielder had been a doubt ahead of the Sporting game but recovered in time to start and play the full match, captaining the side in the absence of several senior players.
“I’m fully fit,” Rice revealed. “Yes, I’ve been ill the last two days. I’ve been in bed, not well.
“I wasn’t at 100 per cent, but to help this team out, no way I was missing a quarter-final to try and get to a semi-final.
“But, yes, it’s just a little illness and I’m over it now and on to Sunday.”
With Martin Odegaard, Bukayo Saka and several others still absent, Rice has stepped into a greater leadership role, having been selected as captain by his team-mates.
He added: “With six games to go in the Premier League, we know how big it is. It’s the ultimate test, but it’s why we play this game. Let’s bring it on.”
All focus now turns to Sunday, with Arsenal knowing a positive result at the Etihad would significantly boost their hopes of securing a first Premier League title in 22 years.
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