Since joining Arsenal from West Ham United in the summer of 2023, Declan Rice has made a significant impact and has spoken positively about his role at the club. As one of the Premier League’s most coveted midfielders, his arrival at Arsenal was a major step in his career, and he has expressed a strong sense of pride, excitement, and ambition about playing for the Gunners.

Key Points from Declan Rice’s Comments About His Role at Arsenal:

1. Pride in Joining a Big Club: Declan Rice has mentioned how much of an honor it is to join a club like Arsenal, one of the top teams in the Premier League. He spoke about how he’s always admired the club’s history, its style of play, and the potential it holds for success in the future. His decision to move to Arsenal reflects his ambition to compete at the highest level and win trophies.
   • Quote: “Arsenal is a massive club. The history here is unbelievable, and to be a part of it now, it’s just a real honor. I’m here to help the team achieve big things.”
2. Being Part of a Young, Ambitious Team: One of the aspects of Arsenal that excites Rice the most is the youthful, dynamic squad that manager Mikel Arteta is building. He has spoken about how energetic and hungry the team is, and how much he enjoys being part of a group that is striving to return to the top of English football. Rice has shown immense enthusiasm about playing alongside players like Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli, who he believes will take the club far in the future.
   • Quote: “I’m excited to be here with such a young, talented squad. We’ve got a great group of players with so much potential, and I’m sure we can achieve something special.”
3. Adapting to Arteta’s Style: Declan Rice has had to adapt to Mikel Arteta’s tactical setup at Arsenal, where he has been deployed as a defensive midfielder but also has more responsibility to contribute to the attack when required. Arteta values his versatility, and Rice has acknowledged that his role at Arsenal involves more than just the classic holding midfielder duties. Rice has been learning to express himself in a more creative role, pushing forward and adding dynamism to the midfield.
   • Quote: “Arteta’s style of play is really exciting. I’ve been learning a lot about positioning and how we build from the back. There’s a lot of emphasis on keeping possession but also being quick and aggressive when we win the ball.”
4. Proud of His Leadership Role: Rice has always been known for his leadership qualities, which he showcased at West Ham, where he was made captain. At Arsenal, while not yet the team captain, he has taken on significant responsibility in midfield. Rice has expressed that he is happy to help guide younger players and contribute to the team’s leadership group. His maturity both on and off the pitch is something that Arteta and his teammates greatly value.
   • Quote: “I’ve always been a leader on the pitch, and I think that’s something that’s valued here. Whether I’m wearing the armband or not, I always want to lead by example and help the team in any way I can.”
5. Excitement About Competing for Trophies: A major motivating factor for Rice’s move to Arsenal was the opportunity to challenge for major honors. While he had great success with West Ham, including winning the UEFA Conference League, he wants to compete for the Premier League and Champions League with Arsenal. His decision to join the club was driven by his desire to win trophies, and he’s eager to contribute to the team’s quest for silverware.
   • Quote: “I want to win trophies, and I know that Arsenal has the potential to do that. I’ve come here to help the club get back to where it belongs, at the top of the Premier League, and competing in Europe.”
6. Building Relationships with Teammates: Since joining, Rice has emphasized how important it is to build strong relationships with his teammates, both on and off the pitch. He has mentioned how quickly he felt welcomed by the squad and how much he appreciates the team spirit that exists within the club. He’s also noted the positive influence of Thomas Partey, who plays in a similar role to Rice, and who has helped him adjust to the team.
   • Quote: “The lads have been great with me. I’ve settled in well, and it’s all about learning from each other and pushing each other to improve every day in training.”
7. Relishing the Responsibility: As a player with experience on the international stage for England, Rice is no stranger to high-pressure situations. He has spoken about relishing the responsibility of playing for a big club like Arsenal, where expectations are high. Rice sees this as an opportunity to prove himself on an even bigger stage and help elevate the team to new heights.
   • Quote: “There’s a lot of responsibility playing for a club like Arsenal, and I enjoy that pressure. I’ve always loved challenges, and I’m ready to help take this club to the next level.”