Arteta plays down Rice Stuivenberg clash after Chelsea win
Mikel Arteta has moved quickly to calm concerns after a heated exchange between Declan Rice and Arsenal assistant coach Albert Stuivenberg during Wednesday night’s Carabao Cup victory over Chelsea, insisting the matter has been fully resolved.
The incident occurred at half time at Stamford Bridge with Arsenal leading 1–0 through Ben White’s header, as television cameras caught Rice and Stuivenberg in a tense tunnel argument before the teams returned for the second half.
The disagreement drew attention amid reports of raised voices and strong language, but the situation appeared to ease as the match progressed. Rice was later substituted in the closing stages and shared a brief embrace with Stuivenberg, underlining that tempers had cooled as Arsenal closed out a dramatic first leg.
The win itself carried significance beyond the touchline drama. Arsenal claimed a 3–2 victory away from home to take momentum into the return leg at the Emirates Stadium on February 3, although Chelsea remain in the tie after Alejandro Garnacho struck twice in the second half.
Stamford Bridge provided a charged backdrop, with a lively crowd and a frantic early tempo setting the tone. Arsenal looked sharp in possession, while Chelsea pressed aggressively as the contest opened into an end to end cup tie rather than a cautious semi final.
Key moments followed in quick succession. Arsenal capitalised on set piece pressure for White’s opener, before Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi added further goals that gave the visitors breathing space. Chelsea responded with sustained pressure, forcing Arsenal into defensive adjustments late on.
The goals told the story of a chaotic contest. White’s first half header rewarded Arsenal’s control, while Gyokeres and Zubimendi struck during a spell where Chelsea struggled to regain defensive shape. Garnacho’s brace brought late tension, but Arsenal held firm.
The second half saw Chelsea increase their intensity, pushing Arsenal deeper and forcing several hurried clearances. Tactical tweaks from Arteta focused on game management, with Rice withdrawn late as Arsenal looked to protect their narrow advantage.
Late drama arrived as Chelsea pressed for an equaliser, but Arsenal’s composure under pressure proved decisive. The visitors managed the closing minutes well, slowing the tempo and limiting clear chances.
After the match, Arteta confirmed the sideline issue was no longer a concern as his side turned attention back to the Premier League. Arsenal now travel to Nottingham Forest on Saturday aiming to maintain their position at the top of the table, buoyed by strong form and the confidence of remaining alive in all four competitions.