Arsenal stars steal the spotlight as Rice future, Arteta decisions and transfer revelations dominate after comeback win over Leeds

From the Newshound archive · first published 10 October 2026.

Arsenal came from behind to defeat Leeds United 2-1 at the Emirates, with Bruno Guimaraes entering as a substitute and netting the decisive goal. A James Justin opener was overturned by strikes from Riccardo Calafiori and the £75m summer signing. Glenn Hoddle singled out Rice as the Premier League's most effective player, saying the midfielder can "do anything, play anywhere and give you a 9/10 every week" — praise that followed Rice's backheel assist for Guimaraes's winner. Rice, contracted until 2028, gave a strong indication that an extension is coming, describing Arsenal as "probably the happiest I've been playing football."

Ray Parlour called on Arsenal to get Rice's new deal "signed, sealed and delivered" without delay, noting the club have only two years left on his existing terms.

Guimaraes, appearing at the Emirates in an official fixture for the first time since his arrival from Newcastle United, said his goal was to give Arteta a "headache" by pushing for a starting berth.

The victory was a timely one for Arsenal, who had been thrashed 3-0 by Brighton heading into the international break.