Rice opens up on the big record that he wants for Bukayo Saka to achieve this season

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has expressed his support for teammate Bukayo Saka in his pursuit of breaking the Premier League assist record this season. Saka, who has already registered 10 assists in the league, is chasing the all-time single-season assist record of 20, and Rice is eager to see the 23-year-old winger reach this milestone.

Speaking after Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United, Rice revealed how much he admires Saka’s ability to deliver in key moments and shared his hopes for the young star to achieve greatness. “He’d have been fuming!” Rice joked when he learned Saka narrowly missed out on being credited for an assist after his corner led to Arsenal’s second goal. “That would have been another one closer to the record. I want him to get that; that’d be massive for him.”

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND – AUGUST 24: Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrate after the team’s victory in the Premier League match between Aston Villa FC and Arsenal FC at Villa Park on August 24, 2024 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

In the match, Arsenal’s second goal came from a corner situation, with Saka’s delivery creating chaos in the United box. While Thomas Partey’s header provided the direct assist for William Saliba’s goal, it was Saka’s pinpoint cross that initiated the sequence. Despite not officially adding to his assist tally, the play highlighted Saka’s immense influence on Arsenal’s attacking play.

Rice, who himself has seven Premier League assists from set plays since the start of last season, emphasized that there is no rivalry between him and Saka when it comes to creating chances. “There’s no competition – as long as we keep putting good balls in and our big centre-halves keep scoring, there’s not a problem,” he said, reflecting the team-first mentality that has driven Arsenal’s success this season.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 09: (L) Declan Rice celebrates scoring the 1st Arsenal goal with (R) Bukayo Saka during the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brentford FC at Emirates Stadium on March 09, 2024 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Saka’s contribution has been pivotal for Arsenal’s campaign. With his exceptional vision, precise deliveries, and ability to execute under pressure, the England international has become one of the Premier League’s most reliable creators. Achieving 20 assists in a single season would place him in the company of legends like Thierry Henry and Kevin De Bruyne, who jointly hold the record.

Rice also highlighted the importance of set pieces in Arsenal’s game plan. The Gunners have scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season, the most in the Premier League, thanks to consistent quality deliveries from players like Saka and Rice. This strength from dead-ball situations has given Arsenal an added edge in tight games, allowing them to secure crucial points in their quest for Premier League glory.

BURNLEY, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 17: Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates with teammate Declan Rice after scoring his team’s third goal during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Arsenal FC at Turf Moor on February 17, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

As Arsenal continue their charge up the table, currently sitting third with 28 points, the partnership between Rice and Saka will remain instrumental. With Saka firmly in the hunt for the assist record and Rice providing both defensive stability and attacking contributions, the duo exemplifies the balance and depth that have made Arsenal a formidable force under Mikel Arteta.

The prospect of Saka breaking the assist record would not only be a testament to his individual brilliance but also to the collective growth and ambition of this Arsenal side. As Rice said, “That’d be massive for him” — and it would be a moment to celebrate for Arsenal fans everywhere.