Handbrake Off: The Athletic FC's Arsenal show Rice masterful in Bayern demolition
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Nov 27, 2025 The hosts celebrate Arsenal's impressive 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich, highlighting a stellar team performance. Declan Rice shines as a leader, enhanced by Martin Zubimendi's contributions. Mikel Merino's new false-nine role adds tactical depth, while impactful substitutes change the game dynamics. The panel discusses youth prospects and upcoming challenges, including a critical match against Chelsea, sparking debates on transfer strategy and squad sustainability. Listen in for insightful player analysis and exciting future prospects for the club.
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Rice: The Team's Glue
- Declan Rice has become Arsenal's on-field glue, raising his leadership and performance to a new level this season.
- His forward runs and set-piece quality make him practically irreplaceable in the current team.
Zubimendi Unlocks Rice's Game
- Martin Zubimendi's presence enables Rice to push forward by offering reliable first-phase build-up.
- Zubimendi's off-ball movement and combative traits make him a subtle but vital partner.
Merino's Reinvented False Nine
- Mikel Merino has remade the false-nine role into a fluid, playmaking centre-forward for Arsenal.
- His dropping and linking allow wingers and attackers to exploit space in different ways.