Arsenal recently missed out on the 2025/26 Carabao Cup after losing 0-2 to Manchester City at Wembley. But for Declan Rice, the story doesn't end there, as a more important Premier League rematch is still ahead.
On 17 April 2026, Declan Rice spoke frankly, saying the defeat was entirely due to his team's own mistakes. The two goals conceded came from allowing City to play too easily, and at this level, there is no room for repeated errors.
“We gave them two goals ourselves, so the game ended quickly like that.”
What was clear is that Arsenal were not overwhelmed throughout the match, but rather 'collapsed' briefly, and that is the focus for Rice. He pointed to his own team's standards needing to improve if they still aim for major trophies.
The focus has shifted immediately from the 'lost final' to the 'upcoming league game' because currently Arsenal still lead the table, and the next meeting with Manchester City will decide who truly controls the title race.
From Rice's perspective, this is not about an 'emotional revenge' but about correcting mistakes, playing sharper, and closing out games when given the chance. Without that, no matter how many chances are created, the result could be the same.
Another clear point is that Arsenal remain firmly in the title hunt. They still lead the league, and the upcoming league match against City is the most tangible and critical contest at this point.