Man City vs Arsenal tension sees Declan Rice issue ultimatum days before title showdown

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Declan Rice has been speaking to the media ahead of Arsenal's Premier League trip to Manchester City on Sunday, with the England midfielder issuing an ultimatum to his team-mates

Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has issued a rallying call to his team-mates ahead of Sunday's blockbuster clash at Manchester City. The 27-year-old has urged his fellow players to prove "how much they want it" against Pep Guardiola's side this weekend.

The Gunners still harbour hopes of securing a rare Premier League and Champions League double - a feat only Manchester United in 2008 and Man City in 2023 have managed this century, with the latter also completing a treble. Mikel Arteta's side edged past Sporting 1-0 on aggregate in their European quarter-final following a tense 0-0 stalemate on Wednesday night.

Arsenal have never lifted Europe's elite trophy - coming closest in the 2006 final, which they lost to Barcelona. Arteta's men will be hoping to make history in north London this year, with Atletico Madrid standing between them and a first Champions League final appearance in 20 years.

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However, the Gunners' immediate attention turns to Sunday's monumental fixture at the Etihad Stadium against City. A win would push Arteta's side nine points clear of the hosts, who also hold a game in hand over Arsenal.

Rice was quizzed on TNT Sports about the crunch trip to Manchester and whether victory over Guardiola's men is essential.

He said: "Of course, you have to win every game. We want to win every game in the Premier League.

"Our record this year has been amazing in all competitions. It's why we play the game.

"It's a game of football at the end of the day. [It's about] how much you want it, so I know I'll be ready, I know the boys will be ready, so let's go."

Significant doubts have emerged regarding Arsenal's mentality in recent weeks as they pursue a first major honour since the 2020 FA Cup. Arteta's squad lost the Carabao Cup final to City before suffering elimination from the FA Cup at Southampton.

The Gunners' disappointing run then persisted on Saturday when they were beaten at home by Bournemouth. However, Rice has attempted to place the speculation surrounding his club into context.

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He added: "Like being at any other top club, there's noise with everything. This is Arsenal football club, there's noise with every game.

"If you don't play well, if you don't play good, take it with a pinch of salt and keep moving.

"Bring on the last few weeks. It's a rollercoaster. Nobody's going to hand you anything in this game. Let's keep going and what will be will be. Let's keep going strong."