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<p>Declan Rice's First Premier League Double</p>
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<img alt="Declan Rice takes full command as Arsenal hero inspires Bournemouth win"
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title="Declan Rice takes full command as Arsenal hero inspires Bournemouth win">
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<p><span>©IMAGO</span></p>
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<p>When Arsenal invested €116.6 million to bring Declan Rice aboard two and a half years ago, skepticism surrounded the decision. However, as the England international continues to lead the Gunners in their Premier League title quest, those doubts have significantly diminished. After missing out on a 4-1 victory against Aston Villa, the 26-year-old made a triumphant return during the away match against Bournemouth, turning in a stellar second-half performance that secured a crucial 3-2 victory for Mikel Arteta's team on the South Coast.</p>
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<p>The match commenced in an unusual manner for Arsenal, particularly for Gabriel Magalhães. Although the holiday season had concluded 10 days earlier, the Brazilian’s giving spirit was evident in his uncharacteristic mistake that allowed Bournemouth to take an early lead. With a careless pass from the left side, he inadvertently set up his fellow countryman Evanilson, who calmly slotted the ball into an empty net while David Raya scrambled in vain across the goal.</p>
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<p>Club Comparison</p>
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<p>Premier League</p>
<p>Premier League</p>
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<p>€474.45m</p>
<p>Market Value</p>
<p>€1.31bn</p>
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<p>First Tier</p>
<p>League Level</p>
<p>First Tier</p>
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<p>€138.10m</p>
<p>Expenditures 25/26</p>
<p>€293.50m</p>
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<p>Andoni Iraola</p>
<p>Managers</p>
<p>Mikel Arteta</p>
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<p><span>Full Club Comparison</span></p>
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<p>Gabriel's frustration was evident. A defender known for his composure on the ball, this blind pass could have jeopardized Arsenal's pursuit of their first domestic title in 22 years. However, true leaders respond to adversity with resolve, and that’s precisely what the 28-year-old displayed at the Vitality Stadium. Rather than dwelling on his mistake, he pressed forward, finding the opposition’s penalty area and firing home after a scramble, thus achieving redemption.</p>
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<img alt="Arsenal goal contributors" height="629"
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title="Arsenal goal contributors" width="503">
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<p>While Arsenal’s performances this season have drawn scrutiny, their resilience remains unquestioned. In challenging moments, Arteta's squad has pulled through, beginning with their 1-0 win against Manchester United earlier in the season, where they were second-best for much of the match. Gabriel and Rice have played pivotal roles during these comebacks, leading on the pitch, making it fitting that both players found the back of the net.</p>
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<p>Viktor Gyökeres showcased his strength by holding up the ball before laying it off to Martin Odegaard. With keen vision, Odegaard passed to Rice, whose exquisite 20-yard strike located the bottom corner. Just 72 minutes in, Rice scored his second of the night following a brilliant run and cutback from Bukayo Saka, completing his first Premier League brace on his 296th appearance. In addition to his attacking contributions, Rice tirelessly covered ground throughout the match, perfectly encapsulating the essence of a player valued at €120 million.</p>
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<p>Eli Kroupi’s stunning effort certainly raised concerns for the visitors, but Arsenal managed to defend their lead effectively. On a day when Aston Villa narrowed the gap at the top of the table, and with Manchester City set to face a struggling Chelsea on Sunday, securing the win was paramount for Arsenal and Rice, who now enjoy a six-point advantage at the top.</p>
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