Declan Rice Praises Arsenal Coach Gabriel Heinze’s Unbelievable Defence

Key Points

• Declan Rice has publicly praised Arsenal’s defensive coach Gabriel Heinze as ‘unbelievable’ behind the scenes since his summer arrival.
• Mikel Arteta appointed Heinze last summer to strengthen the Gunners’ defence.
• Arsenal have conceded just 25 goals in all competitions this season.
• The club achieved 20 clean sheets, the first team in Europe’s top five leagues to do so.
• Under Heinze, Arsenal concede an average of 0.66 goals per game.
• Rice highlighted Heinze’s impact over set-piece coach Nicolas Jover.
• Arsenal secured a 1-0 win over Chelsea on Tuesday, booking a Carabao Cup final spot at Wembley next month.
• The victory showcased Arsenal’s well-drilled defence under Heinze and Arteta.
• Opposition fans label Arsenal ‘boring’, but the team is praised for organisation.

Arsenal Insider (North London News) February 4, 2026 – Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice singled out defensive coach Gabriel Heinze for special praise, calling him ‘unbelievable’ behind the scenes following the Gunners’ gritty 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg. Rice’s comments shift attention from set-piece specialist Nicolas Jover to Heinze, whom Mikel Arteta appointed last summer to overhaul the team’s backline. This season, Arsenal have conceded only 25 goals across all competitions while achieving a league-leading 20 clean sheets, the first team in Europe’s top five leagues to reach that mark.​

The triumph at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday propelled Arsenal into next month’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley, underlining their defensive solidity. Rice, a key figure in midfield, emphasised Heinze’s transformative role, stating that the Argentinian has taken the Gunners’ defence to new heights. With an average of just 0.66 goals conceded per game at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal’s backline has become a fortress.​

Who is Gabriel Heinze and Why Did Rice Praise Him?

Gabriel Heinze joined Arsenal in the summer transfer window as defensive coach under Mikel Arteta’s direction. As reported by staff writers at Arsenal Insider, Heinze’s arrival coincided with a remarkable uptick in defensive performance, propelling the North London club to unprecedented clean sheet tallies. Declan Rice explicitly named Heinze as the coach who’s been ‘unbelievable’ behind the scenes, dismissing comparisons to Nicolas Jover, Arsenal’s set-piece coach.​

Rice’s endorsement came post-match after the Chelsea win, where he claimed Heinze has made the team’s defence “so well-drilled.” The midfielder highlighted how Heinze’s methods have elevated Arsenal beyond their previous levels. Arteta’s decision to bring in the former Manchester United and Real Madrid defender has clearly paid dividends, with the Gunners now Europe’s stingiest defence statistically.​

Heinze, an Argentinian World Cup winner with experience at top clubs, was tasked with refining Arsenal’s backline vulnerabilities from prior seasons. Rice’s comments, as covered extensively by Arsenal Insider, underscore the coach’s quiet but profound influence on daily training and match preparation.

What Has Been Arsenal’s Defensive Record This Season?

Arsenal have conceded just 25 goals in all competitions so far this season, a figure that places them at the pinnacle of defensive excellence. According to data compiled by Arsenal Insider, the Gunners are the first team in Europe’s top five leagues—Premier League, La Liga, Bundesliga, Serie A, and Ligue 1—to record 20 clean sheets. This statistic alone validates Rice’s praise for Heinze.​

Breaking it down, Arsenal’s average of 0.66 goals conceded per game marks a significant improvement. In the Premier League, their defensive metrics have silenced critics, contributing to a strong title challenge. The Chelsea match exemplified this: a resolute 1-0 win on enemy turf, with the backline repelling waves of attacks.​

Heinze’s impact extends to set-piece defence and open-play organisation, reducing errors that plagued earlier campaigns. Rice noted that this discipline has made Arsenal “taken to the next level,” turning potential vulnerabilities into strengths.

How Did Arsenal’s Win Over Chelsea Highlight Heinze’s Work?

The 1-0 victory over Chelsea in the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg was a testament to Arsenal’s organisation. As detailed by Arsenal Insider reporters, the Gunners “ground out” the result through sheer defensive resolve, booking their Wembley final ticket. Rice’s post-match comments directly linked this performance to Heinze’s coaching.​

Despite being labelled ‘boring’ by opposition supporters, Arsenal’s style under Heinze and Arteta prioritises results over spectacle. The Chelsea game saw minimal chances conceded, with the defence standing firm. Rice described the team as “so well-drilled,” crediting Heinze for instilling this mindset.​

Arteta’s tactical setup, bolstered by Heinze’s input, ensured Chelsea’s attacks were neutralised. This win not only advanced Arsenal but reinforced their status as defensive paragons.

Why Are Arsenal Labelled ‘Boring’ by Rivals?

Opposition fans often deride Arsenal as ‘boring’ due to their methodical, low-scoring triumphs. Arsenal Insider notes that in reality, this stems from exceptional organisation under Heinze and Arteta, frustrating attackers. Rice’s praise counters this narrative, focusing on the substance behind the style.​

The Chelsea match fuelled such talk, with Arsenal prioritising clean sheets over flair. Yet, 20 clean sheets and top-flight-leading stats prove efficiency trumps entertainment. Heinze’s behind-the-scenes work ensures the team remains compact and unforgiving.​

This perception persists amid Arsenal’s title push, but players like Rice defend it as necessary evolution.

What Role Did Mikel Arteta Play in Heinze’s Appointment?

Mikel Arteta personally appointed Gabriel Heinze last summer to fortify Arsenal’s defence. As per Arsenal Insider coverage, Arteta identified Heinze’s pedigree—spanning Manchester United, Real Madrid, and Argentina—as ideal for the role. This move has coincided with the Gunners’ best defensive season.​

Arteta’s vision integrated Heinze seamlessly, blending his expertise with the squad’s dynamism. Rice’s comments affirm Arteta’s judgment, noting the collective uplift. The Emirates Stadium now witnesses a defence conceding under a goal per game on average.​

Heinze reports directly to Arteta, focusing on daily drills that yield match-day results.

How Does Heinze Compare to Nicolas Jover?

Declan Rice’s headline remark—”Forget Nicolas Jover”—elevates Heinze above Arsenal’s set-piece coach. While Jover excels in attacking dead balls, Heinze’s overall defensive overhaul takes precedence in Rice’s view. Arsenal Insider framed this as Rice spotlighting the unsung hero.​

Jover’s contributions remain vital, but Heinze’s broader impact on goals conceded dominates discourse. The 0.66 goals-per-game average and 20 clean sheets underscore this. Rice’s choice highlights Heinze’s ‘unbelievable’ daily influence.​

Both coaches complement Arteta, but Rice prioritises Heinze’s defensive mastery.

What Does This Mean for Arsenal’s Season Outlook?

Arsenal’s defensive prowess positions them as title contenders across competitions. The Carabao Cup final berth adds silverware potential, with Heinze’s work central. Rice’s endorsement boosts morale ahead of crucial fixtures.​

Conceding 25 goals total sustains their Premier League lead in defensive stats. Europe’s top-five clean sheet record signals deeper runs in cups and Champions League. Opposition frustration grows, but Arsenal focus on results.​

Heinze’s continuity promises sustained excellence through season’s end.

Broader Impact on North London Rivalry?

In North London, Arsenal’s surge intensifies the Tottenham rivalry. Defensive solidity under Heinze gives them an edge over Spurs’ attacking flair. Rice’s comments, via Arsenal Insider, fuel Gunners’ confidence in derbies.​

Tottenham fans may eye Arsenal’s ‘boring’ label, but stats favour the red half. Heinze’s role ensures derby resilience.

Player Reactions Beyond Rice?

While Rice led tributes, team-mates echo defensive satisfaction. Arteta praised the unit post-Chelsea, implicitly crediting Heinze. Arsenal Insider compiled reactions showing squad-wide appreciation for the coach.​

Midfielders like Rice benefit most, shielded by the backline. Forwards thrive on clean sheets enabling leads.

Future for Heinze at Arsenal?

Heinze’s success suggests a long-term stay. Arteta’s trust and Rice’s public backing secure his position. Arsenal Insider speculates contract extensions amid trophy hunts.​

His methods could define Arsenal’s dynasty, mirroring greats like Mourinho’s backroom teams.