In a significant move for both Arsenal and Declan Rice, the talented midfielder has expressed his admiration for Mikel Arteta, highlighting the manager’s pivotal role in his decision to join the Gunners from West Ham United.
With his arrival at the Emirates Stadium officially confirmed, Rice has become the most expensive British footballer in history, surpassing Jack Grealish’s £100 million transfer to Manchester City in 2021. The 24-year-old has also claimed the title of Arsenal’s record signing, eclipsing the £72 million acquisition of Nicolas Pepe, and has committed to a five-year contract with the option of extending for an additional year.
Manchester City had shown interest in Rice as well, tabling a £90 million offer, but it was Arsenal’s persistence that ultimately won the race for his signature. While the unveiling of Rice was slightly delayed due to negotiations between Arsenal and West Ham over payment arrangements, the England international had set his sights firmly on a move to the Emirates.
He spoke highly of Arteta’s influence on his decision, citing the positive trajectory and playing style implemented by the Arsenal manager. Rice acknowledged the exceptional season the team had recently enjoyed, with the exception of dominant champions Manchester City.
Impressed by Arteta’s coaching methods and his ability to develop and motivate players, Rice expressed his excitement to be working with the manager. He firmly believes that Arteta will extract the best from him and elevate his game to new heights.
Eager to contribute to Arsenal’s resurgence and restore the club to its former glory, Rice embraced the challenge and emphasized the hunger for success that permeates the squad. He expressed his gratitude to the Arsenal fans for their unwavering support throughout the transfer process, acknowledging the speculation that had surrounded his future for months.
Prior to Rice’s move to Arsenal being confirmed, West Ham bid farewell to their former captain after his remarkable 10-year tenure with the club. Starting as a promising prospect in the academy, Rice evolved into a Europa Conference League-winning captain, leaving an indelible mark on West Ham’s history. Although the negotiations between the two clubs were demanding and time-consuming, Rice now feels at home with Arsenal and eagerly anticipates their ascent to the pinnacle of English football.
The midfielder acknowledged the emotional difficulty of leaving West Ham, a club he deeply cherishes. Nevertheless, Rice recognized the immense opportunity presented by a move to a prestigious club like Arsenal, where the culture emphasizes pushing oneself to the limit and a relentless pursuit of victory. Fully committed to the project Arteta is building and the talented squad being assembled, Rice expressed his enthusiasm for the future at Arsenal.
Concluding his tenure at West Ham with 245 appearances, 15 goals, and 13 assists, Rice embarks on a new chapter in his career as Arsenal’s third signing of the summer, joining Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz. He has already joined his new teammates for pre-season preparations in the United States, where Arsenal is scheduled to face the MLS All-Stars, Barcelona, and Manchester United. With Rice’s arrival, Arsenal’s midfield gains a formidable presence and adds further anticipation to their upcoming campaign. The Gunners’ supporters eagerly await the impact Rice will make on the team as they strive for success under Arteta’s guidance.