Declan Rice Brace Boosts Arsenal Premier League Title Race 2026
Declan Rice's double helps Arsenal maintain their lead in the Arsenal Premier League title race 2026. Aston Villa climbs to second place with a home win.
Declan Rice brushed aside injury concerns to steer Arsenal to a gritty 3-2 comeback victory against Bournemouth on January 3, 2026. The win extends the Gunners' lead at the summit of the table to six points over their nearest rivals, providing a significant psychological edge as the season enters its defining phase.
Arsenal Premier League Title Race 2026: Rice Shines
It wasn't an easy afternoon for the league leaders. A rare defensive lapse from Gabriel Magalhaes allowed Evanilson to open the scoring for the Cherries in just the 10th minute. However, Gabriel redeemed himself almost immediately, stabbing home an equalizer six minutes later. This marked his 20th Premier League goal since joining in 2020, the highest tally for any defender in the league during that period.
Rice, who missed the midweek clash due to a knee issue, proved why he's indispensable. He netted twice in the second half, benefiting from Martin Odegaard's vision and Bukayo Saka's impact off the bench. Despite a late strike from Bournemouth's Eli Kroupi, Arsenal held firm to secure the three points.
Aston Villa Leapfrog Manchester City
In Birmingham, Aston Villa continued their formidable home form with a 3-1 win over Nottingham Forest. Ollie Watkins and a John McGinn double ensured Villa's 11th consecutive home win. The result pushes Unai Emery's side into second place with 42 points, one ahead of Manchester City before City's game against Chelsea.
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