Gary Neville says Arsenal star Rice was ‘unhappy’ with Jesus v Manchester City

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Gary Neville noticed a moment during Arsenal’s win over Manchester City when Declan Rice expressed his frustration with Gabriel Jesus.

Arsenal finally managed to beat Manchester City in a Premier League encounter on Sunday, having tasted defeat in their last twelve league meetings with the club. However, things weren’t always rosy on the pitch for the Gunners throughout the match.

Up until they were able to break the deadlock in the 86th minute, Mikel Arteta’s side were frustrated going forward. This led to moments of friction. Especially when Gabriel Jesus had a chance to cut the ball back to Declan Rice in the box but didn’t take it.

The incident in question came in the second half. Jesus did brilliantly to work his way into the Manchester City box. The £45 million Brazilian’s quick feet took him to the edge of the six-yard box. 

With Nathan Ake about to slam the door shut, Jesus had the opportunity to pick out Rice for a tap in. However, the striker didn’t find the pass, and the Manchester City defender dealt with the danger, leaving Rice to vent his frustrations. 

Missed opportunity isn’t haunting Rice and Jesus

Commentating for Sky Sports (08/10/2023, 18:14), Neville highlighted this incident. The former Manchester United defender said, “I think he has to play that across. Rice is really unhappy with him. I just think there he’s got to play it back into an area where Rice is.”

Rice had every right to be unhappy. The £240,000-a-week midfielder had worked hard to break into the box and had taken up a dangerous position. The former West Ham United man has impressive attacking instincts that Arsenal need to learn to exploit more effectively.

However, there will be no lingering anger this morning, as Arteta’s side were ultimately able to get the job done and claim all three points at the Emirates Stadium.

Rice and Jesus both produced outstanding performances overall, and should be delighted with their efforts. The 45-cap England international, in particular, stamped his authority on proceedings in the middle of the park.