‘He said yes’: Mikel Arteta on Arsenal star playing in new role

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December 27, 2025 20:06 GMT (UK), by Sri Aswin

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has explained the decision to play midfielder Declan Rice in the right-back position against Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Gunners registered a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Seagulls earlier on Saturday. Rice had a big role to play, providing the assist for the own goal.

He was also brilliant with his defensive involvements from an unfamiliar right-back role in the injury absences of Jurrien Timber and Ben White.

When asked about the decision, Arteta said: “He has never played in that position. I asked him 48 hours ago and he said yes straight away. When we have difficulties the players are ready to step in.”

The Gunners climbed back to the top of the Premier League after a third-straight win. They are presently just two points ahead of second-placed Manchester City, who won at Nottingham Forest.

The club now face a tricky challenge against Villa, who have been one of the in-form teams in the English top-flight alongside Man City. Arsenal have failed to beat the Midlands outfit in the last two attempts.