In a heated North London Derby, Paul Scholes did not hold back in his criticism of Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice following the team’s 4-1 victory over Tottenham. Although Rice played a significant role in the match, his performance was marred by errors, including a critical mistake that led to Tottenham’s equalizing goal. Scholes highlighted how Rice's emotional state may have impacted his focus on the game, suggesting that such lapses are unacceptable at the elite level, especially for a player of Rice's stature and cost, following his recent £105 million transfer from West Ham United.

Scholes emphasized that while Rice has generally been a solid addition to the Arsenal side since his arrival, the pressure and excitement of the derby seemed to distract him during crucial moments of the match. It appears that both the coaching staff and fans will likely expect a more composed performance from Rice in the future, especially given the high expectations set upon him in his new role at Arsenal.

Overall, this incident highlights the challenges players face when adapting to high-stakes matches in competitive leagues. Scholes’ comments serve as a reminder that even the most talented players can struggle to maintain focus under pressure, and addressing these issues is vital for both Rice's individual development and Arsenal's continued success in the league.