WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 19: Gabriel Martinelli #11 of Arsenal FC is congratulated by Declan Rice #41 and Jurriën Timber #12 after scoring during the MLS All-Star Game between Arsenal FC and MLS All-Stars at Audi Field on July 19, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
3 players who should start for Arsenal vs Man Utd in friendly
Rice in action against the MLS All-Stars. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
2. Declan Rice
While Timber’s arrival somewhat went under the radar, Rice’s record-breaking signing most certainly didn’t. The spotlight will be on the former West Ham skipper at the start of his Arsenal career, and pre-season is a fantastic opportunity for the midfielder to familiarise himself with his new teammates and Arteta’s ideals.
It may take Rice some time to adapt to Arsenal’s obsession with control, although he certainly has the capacity to swiftly adjust.
Rice joined fellow newbies Timber and Kai Havertz on the plane for the club’s tour of the States, making his unofficial debut off the bench against the MLS All-Stars in the week. The midfielder played 25 minutes on Thursday evening, but he’s expected to play at least 45 against United where he could face up against best friend Mason Mount.
It’s not yet clear whether Arteta views the £105m man as a #6 or #8 within his framework.
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