Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on Declan Rice's transformative impact at Arsenal, confidently stating the best is yet to come from the record signing ahead of a pivotal London derby against Chelsea.
From Defensive Anchor to Attacking Force
The England international, signed from West Ham for £105 million in 2023, has evolved significantly from his traditional defensive midfield role into a powerful box-to-box presence. Arteta revealed that even he has been surprised by the 26-year-old's rapid progression since his arrival at the Emirates.
When questioned if Rice had reached his peak, Arteta responded emphatically. "Probably yes, a year or two ago, yes," the manager admitted. "But now being with him every single day and understanding and connecting with him in the way that I've done, we're going to get more. Because he wants more and he's going to get more."
Leadership and Growing Influence
Rice's influence extends beyond his on-pitch performances, with Arteta highlighting his integration into the team's leadership group. "The team knows him better, his role is growing around the team, the impact that he has on the team is huge and we'll find ways to make it even better," Arteta stated.
The Spaniard particularly emphasised Rice's adaptability and forward-thinking approach. "He can adapt to anything that you throw at him. But at the moment that forward thinking and anything that is in front of him is probably much more positive for the team. He has earned the right to increase that role."
Chelsea Return with Title Momentum
Rice's outstanding form comes at a perfect time as Arsenal travel to Stamford Bridge on Sunday to face second-placed Chelsea. The Gunners currently hold a six-point lead over their London rivals in the table.
This match carries extra significance for Rice, who spent seven years in Chelsea's academy before being released at age 14. His journey took him to West Ham before his record-breaking move to Arsenal last year.
Arteta also addressed the team's mentality, referencing Rice's comments about an "anger" within the squad after finishing as runners-up in three successive campaigns. "Yes, but I sense that for a long time and that's a great thing," Arteta said. "That desire, that willingness to win and to do everything that we have in our hands to be the best that we can. It's unquestionable."
In team news, Arteta expressed hope that Leandro Trossard would be available despite the Belgian forward limping off during the midweek victory over Bayern Munich, where Rice was named man of the match.
