Rice and Gabriel Clash as Arsenal’s Title Hopes Take a Hit
Arsenal stars Declan Rice and Gabriel were seen in a heated exchange as the Gunners’ title push lost momentum.
Mikel Arteta’s side struggled to find the net in a frustrating 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest.
Starting the match 11 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, Arsenal faced additional challenges due to an injury crisis, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino to play as a false nine.
Riccardo Calafiori came closest to scoring, hitting the post in the first half at the City Ground. However, Arsenal failed to capitalize, allowing Arne Slot’s Liverpool—who secured a 2-0 victory over Newcastle—to extend their lead.
After the final whistle, Rice and Gabriel were seen walking off together, with TNT Sports cameras capturing Rice gesturing and shouting at the Brazilian defender. The England midfielder was visibly frustrated after failing to clear the first man with a late free-kick.
Fans on social media quickly reacted, with one user on X writing, “Rice and Gabriel in a heated argument.” Another added, “Rice talking under his shirt to Gabriel at the end there tells me all I need to know. The dominoes will start falling—next season will be this core’s last.” A third simply said, “Wheels have come off.”
Despite dominating possession, Arsenal managed just one shot on target.
Speaking to TNT Sports, winger Leandro Trossard reflected on the performance:
“We played well and controlled the game, but goals happen in the box. We defended well, but we need to create more up front. There’s no magic solution—we just have to keep going.”
Manager Mikel Arteta echoed that sentiment, praising his team’s effort but acknowledging their struggles in attack:
“The character was unquestionable—we dominated and tried everything. But we lacked that final spark, the decisive pass to break down a well-organized team. We need to create more clear chances.”