Rice credits Arsenal unity after hard-fought Anfield victory

Declan Rice has credited Arsenal's unity and Mikel Arteta's preparation for their hard-fought victory at Liverpool, saying the champions are prepared to win more difficult games without playing at their best. In comments reported by the Guardian on Monday, the midfielder praised the collective effort behind Sunday's 1-0 success at Anfield.

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Rice said the players' commitment to Arteta's demands had been central to the performance. He described the team's togetherness as something developed over several years and stressed the importance of delivering again this season. Asked whether Arsenal had performed like champions, he agreed, pointing to their organisation and shared approach.

He also drew a comparison with Arsenal's previous Premier League away match, a 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest. Rice acknowledged that performance had been below their best but said taking the points remained important. He expects further testing afternoons, while describing victory at Liverpool as particularly satisfying because of the pressure opponents face at Anfield.

Rice contributed directly to the decisive moment. Liverpool's official match report confirmed that Arsenal recovered possession as the home side tried to build from a goal-kick. Rice then advanced outside Noni Madueke on the right and delivered a low cross, with Kai Havertz arriving at the far post to score from close range in the 16th minute.

Liverpool had opportunities to respond before half-time. Florian Wirtz struck the crossbar with a free-kick, while Alexis Mac Allister headed over from Milos Kerkez's delivery. At the other end, Bruno Guimaraes sent an effort wide and Rice tested Alisson after Jurrien Timber could not turn a Madueke ball towards goal from close range.

The second half brought further work for both defences. Liverpool's report highlighted interventions from Jeremy Jacquet and Virgil van Dijk, followed by an Alisson save from Christos Tzolis. Arsenal defenders also blocked Ronald Araujo after Van Dijk headed the ball back into a dangerous area, helping preserve the visitors' narrow advantage.

According to the Guardian, the result ended Arsenal's wait for a league victory at Anfield stretching back to 2012. They have now won at four grounds where they failed to win during last season's title campaign: Anfield, Villa Park, the Stadium of Light and the City Ground.