‘There was no way I was missing a quarter-final’ – Rice on his fitness, Champions League win and Man City clash

“From what we’ve been through over the last few weeks, the rollercoaster journey we’ve been on, there’s a positive tonight. We can keep building on that.”

Rice’s own contribution underlined that resilience. The midfielder revealed he had spent the previous two days ill in bed and was not at full fitness but still insisted on leading the side on a crucial night.

“I’ve been ill the last two days, I’ve been in bed not well,” he said. “I perked up enough this morning to be able to play. I wasn’t at 100 per cent, but there was no way I was missing a quarter-final to try and get to a semi-final.

“That’s what it’s about – to play for this club under any condition. I’m happy I’ve done that and we’re through.”

While Arsenal’s attacking struggles remain a concern, Rice pointed to the increasing respect they command as a factor in the challenges they face.

“Teams are setting up differently against us – back fives, 5-4-1s, 5-3-2s,” he said. “When they’re camped on the edge of their box, sometimes it is tough to break down because you’re playing against top-level international players.

“But over two legs, people know they’re in for a tough game. We’ve earned that respect. We don’t fear anyone, home or away.”

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Next up in Europe is a semi-final against Atletico Madrid, but for now all focus is on the title race, with little margin for error as City look to capitalise on Arsenal’s recent slip-ups at the summit.

Rice accepts standards must rise if Arsenal are to deliver on their ambitions.

“We have to perform better, for sure. There’s no beating around the bush,” he said. “Defensively, against Sporting, we were much better. Recently we’ve made too many errors, but we cut that out.

“It’s about doing the basics better – the five, ten-yard passes, having that confidence on the ball, relaxing and not feeling under pressure.”

With six games remaining, Arsenal’s title hopes will be shaped by what happens at the Etihad. Rice, however, is adamant his side will not shrink from the occasion.

“The Etihad is the ultimate test,” he said. “But it’s why we play this game. So bring it on.”