“Alot of our fans will talk about Jorginho and Havertz, but that’s unfair. This guy is the most surprising player to me since I joined Arsenal”- Arsenal star Declan Rice admits he’s been really surprised by his Arsenal’s courageous teammate since making his £105M move- Not Saka, Not Saliba and not Martinelli.
Last summer marked a pivotal moment for Arsenal with the acquisition of Declan Rice in a record-breaking £105 million deal from West Ham. Since joining, Rice seamlessly integrated into Arsenal’s midfield, showcasing his skills on the pitch. Despite his successful adaptation, the England international acknowledges that his transition was greatly aided by the stellar performances of Arsenal’s premier center-back duo, William Saliba and Gabriel.
In a recent interview prior to Arsenal’s dominant 4-1 victory over Newcastle, Rice expressed his admiration for Saliba and Gabriel, underscoring their significant contributions to the team. With genuine respect, Rice lauded Saliba’s remarkable abilities, having heard positive reviews about him before joining Arsenal. However, it was Gabriel who pleasantly surprised Rice the most, with his fierce aggression and unwavering mentality on the field. Describing Gabriel as a player epitomizing strength and tenacity, Rice highlighted his hunger for success and refusal to back down from challenges. For Rice, having formidable center-backs like Saliba and Gabriel instills confidence and lifts the team’s performance to new heights.
Furthermore, Rice welcomed the pressure of competing in the intense Premier League title race with Arsenal. Rather than feeling intimidated, he thrives on the excitement of the challenge, relishing every moment of high-stakes competition. Rice emphasized the joy of striving for victory in crucial matches, recognizing that these experiences will be cherished long after his playing days are over. Indeed, he views participation in title races as invaluable opportunities for personal growth and reflection, enriching his journey in the football world.
