Former West Ham United manager David Moyes has now shared his thoughts on how Declan Rice can truly flourish at Arsenal.
Declan Rice has already made a hugely positive impression at Arsenal.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a fantastic first season at the Emirates Stadium. Having arrived from West Ham United last summer, the midfielder quickly endeared himself to the North London faithful as he scored a late winner against Manchester United.
The England star rapidly became an integral member of Mikel Arteta’s squad and went from strength to strength over the course of the campaign, proving that he can make an impact at both ends of the pitch.
Arteta has encouraged Rice to take up a more advanced role at Arsenal, and this decision led to the player enjoying his most productive season in front of goal of his career so far. He ended the term with a return of seven goals and ten assists.
Rice arrived at Arsenal with a reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League. However, his progress at Arsenal, and deployment as a more advanced left-eight, has left Arteta with a conundrum as to where on the pitch the player should be used in the future as he plots the summer rebuild of his midfield contingent.
Arsenal cannot pursue a midfield transfer target until Arteta has decided Rice’s long-term role in the team.
David Moyes tells Arsenal where Declan Rice is at his best
David Moyes managed Rice for an extended period at the London Stadium and knows the player well.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, the Scot said: “Declan was such a great lad to have and could cover the ground in his recovery speed, his ability. But I have to say, and I’ve said it, he has improved in a lot of ways.
“I think he wanted to prove to everybody how good he could be at the other side [attacking] as well.
“I think he’s better as a six.”
Arsenal star Rice impressing for England at Euro 2024
Rice is currently representing the Three Lions at Euro 2024. The 52-cap international has made an impressive start to his tournament campaign, and has been tasked with a familiar, more defensive remit by Gareth Southgate.
The national press heaped praise on Rice for his performance in England’s opening fixture against Serbia. He will almost certainly be named in the starting XI again against Denmark on Thursday.