Heading into Saturday’s early kick-off against Nottingham Forest, many Arsenal fans expected to see their usual midfield general in the starting lineup.
Instead, Mikel Arteta threw in a surprise that had supporters talking before a ball was even kicked.
Declan Rice Left on the Bench
One of the biggest shocks was Declan Rice, a near ever-present since joining the Gunners, starting on the bench.
The England international has barely missed a minute this season, racking up two assists in his first three league games.
The last time he was rested even briefly came when he came off late in the win over Manchester United.
For a player seen as central to Arsenal’s success, his omission against Forest raised plenty of eyebrows.
Arteta opted instead to hand Mikel Merino a place in midfield.
Arteta Explains His Thinking
Speaking before kick-off, Arteta made it clear his decision wasn’t about form, but about planning for a busy period.
“The amount of games we play in the next 21 days means we have to find the right balance,” he told TNT Sports.
“It’s about making sure everybody is connected.”
In other words, Rice isn’t being dropped—just carefully managed.
Eze Makes His First Start
There was some excitement among Arsenal fans despite Rice’s absence.
Summer signing Eberechi Eze was handed his full debut, adding fresh creativity to the starting XI.
On the right wing, Noni Madueke kept his place after impressing on international duty with England, covering for the still-absent Bukayo Saka.
A Fixture Arsenal Usually Dominate
If there’s a game where Arteta can afford to rotate, it’s this one.
Arsenal’s record against Nottingham Forest at home is outstanding—they’ve won their last six meetings with a combined score of 19-2.
In fact, they’re unbeaten in their last 14 home clashes with Forest.
That history means the gamble of resting Rice may not carry too much risk, though fans will be watching closely to see how it plays out.
How the Gunners Lined Up
Arsenal XI: Raya, Timber, Mosquera, Gabriel, Calafiori, Zubimendi, Merino, Odegaard, Eze, Madueke, Gyokeres
Subs: Arrizabalaga, Hincapie, White, Martinelli, Trossard, Nwaneri, Rice, Lewis-Skelly, Dowman