Declan Rice has proven Arsenal’s £105 million is extremely worth it with his impressive performances since the start of the season.
Declan Rice is the most successful “hundred million” contract this season. Photo: Arsenal FC
In the summer of 2023, Arsenal made great efforts to win Declan Rice’s signature with fierce competition from Liverpool, Man City or Man United. Finally, The Gunners achieved their goal by spending £105 million on West Ham to own the English midfielder. After nearly half of the season has passed, the Emirates Stadium team is certainly satisfied with their most expensive contract.
For every rookie, they always want to prove themselves as soon as they set foot at a new club. In particular, this becomes even more important for record signings like Declan Rice. The English midfielder left his first memorable moment with a goal against Man United. The star born in 1994 scored in the 90+6 minute and helped Arsenal win against the opponent from the city of Manchester.
The goal against the “Red Devils” confirmed the value of Declan Rice and sent a message to Arsenal fans about a player who can help their team succeed. After the victory with Man United, a photo of Rice’s celebration was framed and hung in the Gunners’ dressing room.
Declan Rice was extremely excited after scoring against Man United. Photo: AFP
Not stopping there, Declan Rice continued to shine in extra time to bring home 3 valuable points against Luton Town. After the match, captain Mikel Arteta was asked about the English midfielder’s fate in stoppage time. The 41-year-old coach affirmed that his student will continue to have important goals that can happen in any match.
At the time of Declan Rice’s debut, Arsenal’s management and fans were hoping for a well-rounded and classy player in midfield. After just a few months, they have seen much more from the 23-year-old midfielder. The former West Ham player showed strength, character, the ability to read the game and know how to seize decisive moments. Rice adapted quickly and achieved much higher efficiency than expected.
A good start at the team largely comes from Rice’s enthusiasm and willingness to improve himself. Despite the high transfer fee, the midfielder born in 1999 always appears humble and constantly tries his best in every match. The “Three Lions” player knows he still has a lot to learn, especially about Arteta’s system.
During Arsenal’s pre-season tour of the United States, Declan Rice began to get to grips with Mikel Arteta’s different tactical demands. After friendly matches, the English midfielder watches back and gives suggestions to the whole team. Even the 24-year-old star repeatedly asked the team’s leadership to hold meetings to improve tactics. Rice seemed not to want to waste time and integrate quickly at the new team.
Off the field, Declan Rice is also loved by his teammates thanks to his openness and outgoing nature. Besides, the English midfielder has good relationships with the coaching staff, service staff and even the chefs.
Declan Rice promises to achieve success with Arsenal. Photo: AFP
Everything shows that Declan Rice is having a good start at Arsenal and the English midfielder’s journey is also becoming promising at the Emirates. In the immediate future, the English midfielder may be the key to helping the “Gunners” end their winless streak at Anfield and further win the Premier League title this season.
