No One In The Premier League Has More Set-Piece Assist Than Declan Rice Since He’s Arsenal Debut- 10 And Still Counting.

Declan Rice’s arrival at Arsenal was met with excitement and high expectations, given the club’s record-breaking investment to secure his signature from West Ham United. While many anticipated his defensive solidity and leadership in midfield, few could have predicted just how influential he would become in attacking phases, especially from set-piece situations. Since pulling on the red and white jersey, Rice has carved out a remarkable niche — becoming the Premier League’s top provider of set-piece assists.

With 10 assists already to his name in this area, Rice has shown that his contribution to Arsenal goes far beyond breaking up play and dictating tempo. His precision from corners and free-kicks has been a constant threat to opponents, consistently finding teammates in dangerous positions. What was once considered a secondary part of his game has now become one of his defining strengths at the Emirates.

This newfound creative edge has provided Mikel Arteta with an extra weapon in matches where tight defences refuse to be broken down. Arsenal, who have occasionally been criticized in past seasons for struggling against low-block teams, now possess a player who can unlock resistance with a perfectly delivered set-piece. The statistics speak for themselves — no other player in the league has been more effective in this particular department since Rice’s debut.
It’s not just about quantity but also quality.

Several of Rice’s assists have come in pivotal moments, turning draws into wins and keeping Arsenal firmly in the conversation at the top of the table. In a league where fine margins often decide titles, having a midfielder capable of such consistency in dead-ball situations can be priceless. His delivery has proven to be as reliable as his defensive work rate, cementing his all-around importance.

What makes Rice’s set-piece success even more impressive is his versatility. While many specialist takers in the Premier League are primarily attackers or wide players, Rice combines his defensive duties with a knack for orchestrating chances from stationary positions. This duality makes him an invaluable asset, allowing Arsenal to maintain balance while still posing a constant threat from corners and free kicks.

For Arteta, this has been a tactical blessing. With Rice in charge of deliveries, Arsenal’s aerial power has been fully unleashed. Defenders like Gabriel and William Saliba, along with forwards such as Gabriel Jesus, have all benefited from his pinpoint balls into the box. The ripple effect has been clear — Arsenal have become far more dangerous and efficient in set-piece situations than in recent years.

As the season progresses, Rice’s ability to blend midfield dominance with attacking creativity could prove decisive in Arsenal’s push for silverware. If he continues on this trajectory, he won’t just be remembered as the midfielder who stabilized Arsenal’s core but also as one of the most effective set-piece specialists in the Premier League era. Ten assists and counting — and there’s every reason to believe many more are yet to come.