The legendary Manchester City manager’s evaluation of recent Arsenal acquisition Declan Rice wasn’t particularly unusual, but you never know when he’s being real. He has spoken very well of the former West Ham captain.
After two bids were turned down, the Gunners finally agreed to a British and club-record £105 million agreement with the Hammers to capture Rice this summer, defeating City in the process. Although Rice appeared interested in joining the Cityzens to replace Ilkay Gundogan, they were unwilling to meet Rice’s asking price, since the player was also eager to don the red and white for the foreseeable future.
Rice is a potentially game-changing signing to Arsenal’s midfield, and Mikel Arteta will be hopeful that the Gunners can unseat City at the Premier League peak in 2023–2024. They finished five points behind the eventual champions after an outstanding 2022–2023 season, and they have since spent over £200 million in an effort to close the gap, with additional signings apparently in the works.
Pep Guardiola praises the “incredible” new addition to Arsenal.
Although losing out on Rice was disappointing for City, the Manchester team has recovered from losing top targets to rival teams in the past. Guardiola, though, seems to think highly of the England international as the Spaniard recently waxed poetic about Arsenal’s new midfielder.
Before Sunday’s Community Shield matchup with Arsenal, Guardiola spoke about Rice’s transfer to the Gunners: Guardiola remarked, “Rice decided on Arsenal, so all the best” (via the Metro).
“He’s a great guy, a vital player, and he will be crucial for England.” What an amazing player for Arsenal.
Rice is in line to play against the triple champions on Sunday, despite having had a mixed preseason thus far as he seeks to adjust to a more possession-oriented system and an advanced midfield role.
Arsenal has won the Community Shield four times since 2014, demonstrating their recent success in the competition. Ahead of Nottingham Forest’s Premier League debut at home the following week, Arteta will be hoping that run of success continues at Wembley.
