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Mikel Arteta hints at Declan Rice issue after Arsenal concern emerges in Man Utd loss

Declan Rice made his second Arsenal appearance during their pre-season defeat against Manchester United on Saturday – eight days since his £105million move was confirmed

Mikel Arteta has warned Arsenal fans that it will take time for Declan Rice to settle into the side after struggling during their friendly defeat against Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils ran out 2-0 winners at MetLife Stadium thanks to first-half goals from Bruno Fernandes and Jadon Sancho. It brought to an end Arsenal’s three-game unbeaten run in pre-season, while United continued their 100% start following victories over Leeds and Lyon.

As for the Gunners, they weren’t able to gel as a team in the first-half, with Rice, Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard starting in a midfield-three. The trio lasted until the 59th minute before Arteta made a triple change as Rice made way for Thomas Partey, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.

When asked about his side’s starting midfield, Arteta hinted that he will stick with the trio despite not impressing against United. He said: “When they play 55 times together, it will be better, it will flow better, they will understand each other better and we will be more dominant. But things take time to glide and we have to respect that.”

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