Declan Rice admits Arsenal players all love one often criticised thing about Arteta

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Declan Rice has now spoken out in defence of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been in the spotlight recently following his fiery outburst about Premier League refereeing and VAR standards.

The Spanish coach has drawn plenty of criticism for his comments. Michael Owen even went as far as to call his actions “classless.”

In the past, Arteta has also come under fire for his touchline antics. He is an energetic and expressive figure on the side of the pitch, constantly gesticulating and barking instructions to his players. 

For all the pressure on him, Arteta is unlikely to change. He is clearly comfortable with the approach he has elected to take to the job. Declan Rice is certainly glad that that is the case.

The former West Ham United midfielder has stated that he appreciates Arteta’s approach to things. Speaking to TNT Sport, the England star said, “we love it. I think you see how passionate he is. I think he sometimes gets criticised for how he is on the sidelines but, you know, he’s living the game through us.”

“He’s so energetic and the way he speaks, he’s like a teacher. The way he is in the changing room with us, that really fires us up for the game and I think that’s what he’s really, really good at.”

Attention at Arsenal must now turn to the future

As long as he is inspiring and energising his players, Arteta won’t care about any external criticisms of his behaviour.

Arsenal fans will also be pleased to hear that the manager’s methods are having such a profound effect on the squad.

Despite this vindication, Arteta will surely now be keen to put the drama of the last week behind him. After the disappointing defeats against West Ham United and Newcastle United, in the EFL Cup and Premier League respectively, and the fallout from Arteta’s rage against the officials, the Gunners were able to get back on track with a comfortable 2-0 win against Sevilla in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.

All focus at the club now needs to be on Saturday’s upcoming Premier league clash against Burnley. Arsenal need to head into the international break off the back of a win that will keep them in the mix at the top end of the table.