Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas does not think Declan Rice needs time to adapt at the Emirates and says he could become a big leader for his old side.
Arsenal signed Declan Rice from West Ham United for huge money earlier this summer, but Fabregas thinks he could prove to be worth it.
Hailing the 24-year-old in an interview with Sky Sports, the retired Spain international said: “Arsenal will compete for the title again; they are stronger than last season. Declan Rice is fantastic.
“His personality brings a new dimension to the team, and he doesn’t really need too much time to adapt because he is so smart. He could be a big leader for Arsenal.”
Rice has helped Arsenal get off to a strong start to the season. Since his arrival, the Gunners have won the Community Shield and their first two Premier League fixtures against Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace.
High praise for Declan Rice
The above is quite the compliment with it coming from one of the best midfielders the Premier League has ever seen in Fabregas.
It is warranted, though, with Rice already showing that he is a fantastic player at Arsenal.
According to WhoScored, the England international is currently making three tackles per game. No one in Mikel Arteta’s squad is averaging more right now.
Will Rice help Arsenal to win the title this season? Even if he continues to play the way he has been and gets even better, it seems unlikely.
Their rivals Manchester City are just another animal, especially with Erling Haaland leading the line for them.
Nevertheless, the additions of the likes of Rice and Kai Havertz have improved the quality of Arsenal’s depth. They could have another bright campaign, though it is likely to end without the Premier League crown again.
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