Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand expressed his desire for his ex-club to have secured the signing of Declan Rice before Arsenal did.
Arsenal set a new club record by paying £105 million to acquire Rice from West Ham United during the recent summer transfer window.
Despite the hefty price tag, Rice has impressed Arsenal fans and quickly justified the investment.
During the summer, there was intense competition for the 24-year-old’s services.
Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, had a £90 million offer rejected by West Ham before Arsenal successfully finalized the deal.
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, is thrilled to have Rice at the Emirates Stadium, where he has become a crucial player, contributing power, dynamism, and leadership to the midfield. Arteta even envisions Rice as a potential future captain for the club.
In a recent match against Luton Town, Rice once again proved his worth to Arsenal.
As the clock ticked down in injury time with the score tied at 3-3, Rice scored a crucial goal after a well-placed cross from Martin Odegaard.
This goal not only secured a dramatic victory for Arsenal but also extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table.
The post-match celebrations were lively, with Rice being praised by his teammates in the dressing room after the final whistle.
Rio Ferdinand expresses Declan Rice regret:
Rio Ferdinand has now voiced his regret that Manchester United were unable to sign Rice themselves.
Speaking on his FIVE YouTube platform, he said, “Declan Rice, I said it before Man Utd he was the player I would’ve 100% gone and got.”
“You could argue there’s midfielders with more ability than him but I would argue that it’s only Jude Bellingham that comes near him in terms of being able to get into a dressing room and trying to get control of that dressing room and get the respect of that dressing room on day two, three, four, straight away.”
“Not only with performances and standards and helping with the culture and the environment but the attitude and the like-ability factor, the respect factor that he would get straight away. That’s why I thought he more than anybody it was important that Man United should’ve gone and got and they allowed Arsenal to go and get him.”
Rice, along with Real Madrid standout Jude Bellingham, holds a pivotal role in the English national team.
If both players are fit when EURO 2024 kicks off, they are highly likely to secure starting positions in Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions lineup.
These two talents embody the future of England’s midfield and have the potential to establish themselves as some of the best players of their generation.
On the club front, Rice’s primary focus should be maintaining his fitness and top form throughout the season.
His significance to Arsenal is undeniable, and ensuring his consistent availability and performance is crucial for the team’s success.