Arsenal handed PSG blueprint to unlock Declan Rice for Champions League semi-final decider
As Arsenal prepare for their crucial Champions League semi-final second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, the French giants may have just been handed the perfect tactical blueprint to neutralize Declan Rice’s influence.
Rice has been a midfield colossus for the Gunners this season, breaking up play and dictating tempo with his intelligence and physicality. However, Bayern Munich’s approach in the quarter-finals provided a potential roadmap for PSG to follow. The German side effectively bypassed Rice by overloading the flanks and using quick, vertical passes to disrupt Arsenal’s defensive structure.
PSG, with their explosive wingers in Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, could replicate this strategy. By isolating Rice in transition and forcing him into wide areas, they may be able to limit his impact in the heart of midfield. Additionally, deploying a false nine to drag Arsenal’s center-backs out of position could create gaps for PSG’s midfield runners to exploit.
Mikel Arteta will need to find a solution—whether through tactical adjustments or increased support from Martin Ødegaard and Jorginho—to ensure Rice isn’t overrun. If PSG succeeds in unlocking Arsenal’s midfield anchor, the Gunners’ Champions League dream could be in serious jeopardy.
One thing is certain: all eyes will be on Rice’s battle in the engine room, where this tie could be won or lost.
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