Arsenal vs Bournemouth top tip: Why to back Declan Rice to score at 9/2

Arsenal will look to move 12 points clear at the top of the Premier League table on Saturday, if they beat Bournemouth at the Emirates.

The Gunners come into the weekend's clash in first place with 70 points, and they are nine points ahead of second-placed Manchester City having played a game more, whereas Bournemouth are 13th with 42 points.

Mikel Arteta's side will be seen as favourites, and it is no surprise that bet365 have priced a home win at 4/9 (1.44), though the visitors should not be underestimated.

The Cherries are unbeaten in 11 Premier League games, and if they were to earn a positive result at the Emirates, it could be an indication that Arsenal are feeling the pressure of the title race.

Can Declan Rice lead Arsenal to victory?

Bournemouth managed to win both Premier League clashes against the Gunners in 2024-25, but they were beaten 3-2 at home in the reverse fixture this season.

Arsenal star Declan Rice scored twice at the Vitality Stadium in January, latching onto the end of two cutback passes to sweep home from inside the box.

The midfielder has only scored four Premier League goals, but he has scored in three of his last four league games against Bournemouth in the top flight.

Rice has a habit of scoring against the Cherries, and bet365 have subsequently offered odds of 9/2 (5.5) of him scoring on Saturday, a probability of 18.2%.

Declan Rice's immense record against Bournemouth

Arsenal fans have usually come to rely on Declan Rice for his ability to patrol the middle of the pitch, with his athleticism and defensive intelligence helping to stop counter-attacks.

However, the midfielder has often found joy against Bournemouth from an offensive perspective having scored more goals against Bournemouth (five) than any other opponent.

Considering his strong record against the visitors, there may be some value in backing him to find the back of the net, a prediction that bet365 have priced at 9/2 (5.5).

It should also be noted that the Englishman has also registered more direct goal involvements in the Premier League against the Cherries than any other team (seven).

The Emirates crowd will hope for a similarly productive match from the midfielder, and if he can contribute in the final third, they will stand a strong chance of claiming three points.