What Declan Rice told referee in Arsenal’s defeat sparks reaction

Declan Rice trends after Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes took a hit last night as they slumped to a surprise 2-0 defeat against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.

It wasn’t just the loss that grabbed headlines as midfield star Declan Rice had some choice words for referee Robert Jones after the Gunners were reduced to 10 men, leaving fans buzzing over his post-match comments.

Declan Rice reportedly confronted Jones, exclaiming, “Every week it’s the same!”—a telling remark that hinted at Arsenal’s growing frustration with officiating this season.

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The game turned on its head in the first half when William Saliba was sent off for tripping Evanilson, with Jones brandishing a straight red card, ruling Saliba as the last man.

Despite being down to 10, Arsenal kept things level until the 70th minute when Ryan Christie rifled Bournemouth ahead. Just minutes later, David Raya conceded a penalty, which Justin Kluivert coolly converted, sealing the Cherries’ stunning victory.

Reflecting on the match, Declan Rice admitted that Arsenal’s “silly mistakes” cost them dearly, but his candid swipe at the officiating revealed deeper frustrations in the Gunners’ camp.

With this defeat marking their first Premier League loss of the season, Mikel Arteta’s men now face increased pressure as title rivals Liverpool and Manchester City play catch-up with games in hand.

Are Arsenal their own worst enemy—or is inconsistent refereeing becoming their Achilles’ heel?