Arteta Confides in Declan Rice’s Growth at Arsenal

Arteta Confident Declan Rice Will Reach a Higher Level

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s coach, firmly believes that Declan Rice, the team’s midfielder, still has a lot of potential to be exploited. This is before Sunday’s match against Chelsea, which presents a formidable midfield with Enzo Fernández and Moisés Caicedo. The investment made in these three players exceeds 300 million pounds sterling, with each of them signed for a nine-figure sum. All are considered high-level footballers in the Premier League this season. Rice recently revealed that he voted for Caicedo in his 2024-25 team of the year, demonstrating the ongoing debate about who is the best player. However, Arteta backs the England international, confident that he will reach an even higher level, despite his impressive consistency in the last 12 months.

“Probably, a year or two ago, yes, but now, being with him every day, understanding him and connecting with him the way I have, we are going to get more. Because he wants more, the team knows him better, his role is growing in the team. The impact he has on the team is enormous.”

Mikel Arteta

Arteta, when asked if this is the best version of Rice, responded that there is still room for improvement. He highlighted the connection he has achieved with the player and his growing importance in the team.

The coach recalled that he always had Rice’s current position in mind, even before signing him. Arteta values Rice’s energy, presence, and charisma, in addition to his footballing qualities. Rice’s figure as a leader at Arsenal has grown noticeably in recent seasons, and the player has expressed his desire to lead the club to victory. Arteta added that Rice has earned the right to increase his leadership role, being an important presence in all team activities. He is part of the leadership group, which is fundamental.