Cesc Fabregas left with egg on his face over Declan Rice comments as Arsenal expose Real Madrid

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Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice had a night he could’ve only dreamt of against Real Madrid.

In a remarkable first-leg performance, Arsenal beat Real Madrid 3-0 at the Emirates to take a three-goal lead to the Bernabeu.

Mikel Arteta’s side knew what was at stake in the Champions League quarter-final and performed as though their lives depended on it.

Though several Arsenal players stood out against Real Madrid, it was Rice who won the game, scoring two direct free kicks.

• READ MORE: ‘Fearless’… Arsenal fans in agreement over ‘best player on the pitch’ against Real Madrid

Cesc Fabregas’ comments on Declan Rice didn’t age well

Arsenal fans compared Rice to David Beckham after the England international curled two sensational free kicks beyond the reach of Thibaut Courtois.

Before the contest, Courtois downplayed Arsenal’s record at the Emirates, and he wasn’t the only figure left with egg on his face after the full-time whistle.

Like the former Chelsea goalkeeper, Cesc Fabregas made some comments prior to kick-off that didn’t age well. 

Speaking on Amazon Prime Video’s pre-match coverage, Fabregas admitted he’s waiting to see more from Rice.

“I think Declan is a top player. When Arsenal signed him I thought it was the perfect decision for him and for the club. I still haven’t seen continuously the player I saw at West Ham.”

The ex-Arsenal midfielder went on to state that he’s yet to see the ‘total package’ that Rice offered when he was at West Ham.

“For me, he was the total complete package, I think here he has a more specific role to play.”

Fabregas proven wrong as Rice shines in all areas against Real Madrid

Rice’s contribution in attack has been questioned throughout his career, but the 26-year-old thwarted any concerns with his double against Madrid. 

It wasn’t only the England international’s brace that deserved applause, as the midfielder’s all-round performance was near-faultless.

Fabregas doubted whether he’d seen the ‘complete package’ from Rice since his move across London, a comment that the player responded to perfectly with his outrageous display. 

There’s a reason why Rice’s £105m price tag is rarely spoken about, as the former West Ham captain is without a doubt a player worthy of a nine-figure value.