Ex-Gunner names Arsenal’s ‘weapon’ ahead of PSG | OneFootball

Ahead of Arsenal’s seismic Champions League semi-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain, former Invincible Gilberto Silva has underlined the vital importance of Declan Rice to Mikel Arteta’s side.

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The Brazil 2002 World Cup winner believes Rice’s impact since his £105 million move from West Ham has made him a defining figure in Arsenal’s quest for European glory.

Speaking before the clash at the Emirates, Gilberto said: “Declan is so stable. He was great for West Ham.

“This is why we asked to look at him and brought him to the team, expecting him to provide these games. I can see an improvement in every game. When he raises his standard, he can be stable from one game to another.

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“I believe this is a massive weapon for Arsenal because Arsenal can be dominant in the midfield with him, Thomas Partey, or anybody else he plays alongside to win the battles. This is a very important sector of the pitch,” Gilberto added.

Rice’s performances have already defined Arsenal’s European run, with his free-kick brace against Real Madrid at the Emirates and his defensive control at the Bernabéu ensuring a stunning 5-1 aggregate victory over the holders.

Arteta has called for a historic night at the Emirates, urging supporters to “bring your boots, bring your shorts, bring your shirts and let’s play every ball together” as Arsenal push to reach their first Champions League final since 2006.

Gabriel Martinelli echoed that sentiment, declaring it “the opportunity of our lives.”