Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has raved about Declan Rice after he played against Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium in North London in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
Mikel Arteta has told Football.London that Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is a coach in the dressing room and is a big influence on his teammates.
Rice joined Arsenal from London and Premier League rivals West Ham United in the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old England international midfielder made his Premier League debut for Arsenal against Forest on Saturday.
Arsenal won the Premier League match 2-1.
And Arteta was impressed with Rice’s leadership skills.
Mikel Arteta praises Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice
Arteta said about Rice: “It’s very natural. You’ve seen him today, I don’t know if it was after two minutes or after 10, but the way he’s moving, the way he’s coaching and integrating in that dressing room I think he’s enjoying the position.
“He should have scored probably two goals today. So more of the same. He’s not thinking, he’s just acting and I’m really pleased with what he’s done.”
Rice is one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League, and Arsenal are a better team with him in it.
The England international grew and developed during his time at West Ham, and now he is a very mature footballer.
And Rice is only 24.
The midfielder can only get better in the coming years.
Rice plays consistently well, and he is also able to operate in defence.
It will be interesting to see how Rice does in the UEFA Champions League this season.
Arsenal will be aiming to make an impact in Europe’s premier club competition this campaign.
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