Steven Gerrard believes Mikel Arteta must turn to his biggest names in Arsenal’s decisive second leg against Atlético Madrid after praising an “immense” display from Declan Rice in Madrid.
Arsenal left the Metropolitano with the tie level after a tense 1-1 draw, a result that keeps them in a strong position ahead of the return leg at the Emirates.
It was a game full of pressure, tactical adjustments and late controversy, but Gerrard’s focus afterwards fell firmly on two things: Rice’s influence and Arteta’s selection for the next meeting.
Gerrard singles out Declan Rice again
Rice has become one of Arsenal’s most consistent performers this season, but his role against Atletico was slightly different.
Rather than pushing forward into advanced midfield spaces, he spent much of the first half dropping deeper between Arsenal’s central defenders to help build through Atletico’s front press.
That tactical tweak worked.
It gave Arsenal more control in the first phase and allowed them to progress possession more cleanly under pressure.
Gerrard was particularly impressed by how Rice adapted.
“I thought he was immense, especially in the first half. He was dominant, in and out of possession.” — Steven Gerrard
That assessment reflects what Rice has become for Arsenal this season: adaptable, reliable and increasingly decisive in high-level games.
Arteta urged to bring back Saka and Eze
While Arsenal’s starting setup was solid, Gerrard believes the second leg demands more attacking edge from the first whistle.
His message was clear.
Bring Bukayo Saka back into the starting side and give Eberechi Eze a bigger role.
Both made an impact after coming off the bench in Madrid, adding pace and unpredictability during key moments.
For Gerrard, that matters.
Champions League semi-finals are often decided by moments, and players capable of creating those moments need to be on the pitch.
Having followed Arsenal’s biggest matches this season, Saka’s influence in knockout football has repeatedly shaped games, while Eze offers a directness that can unsettle compact defensive structures.
That combination could be crucial at the Emirates.
Arsenal remain favourites
Despite Atletico’s resilience, Arsenal will feel the balance of the tie is still in their favour.
The Emirates crowd, their recent home form and the overall control they showed for long spells in Spain all point in that direction.
Still, there were warning signs.
Atletico remain dangerous in transition and showed enough to prove this tie is far from over.
| Declan Rice vs Atletico | Total |
|---|---|
| Possession won | 9 |
| Passes completed | 71 |
| Tackles won | 5 |
| Duels won | 8 |
source: match performance data – 29 April 2026
Rice’s numbers underline why Gerrard was so emphatic in his praise.
What happens next
Arsenal now return to London knowing one strong performance will take them into the Champions League final.
Arteta’s team selection will be one of the major talking points in the build-up, especially after Gerrard’s call to restore more attacking firepower from the start.
Rice’s role will also be closely watched.
If Arsenal can combine his control with the attacking quality of Saka and Eze, their chances improve significantly.
Should Arteta start Saka and Eze in the second leg, or trust the team that got the result in Madrid?
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