Arteta reveals why the signing of Declan Rice will forever change Arsenal

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his excitement over the club’s new signing, Declan Rice, and believes that the midfielder will bring a new dimension to the team. The Gunners have been active in the 2023 summer transfer window, securing the services of several talented players to strengthen their squad.

Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham for a record-breaking fee of £105 million, is highly regarded for his leadership qualities and experience in the Premier League. Arteta spoke highly of Rice’s aura and highlighted his physical attributes as something that Arsenal has been lacking for some time.

“His leadership, his aura, obviously the experience he already has in this league. He’s going to bring the team to a different dimension,” said Arteta in an interview with Arsenal’s official website.

The Spanish manager emphasized the importance of signing players who can complement each other and provide more depth and quality to the squad. He believes that Rice’s arrival will not only improve the team but also inspire others to push themselves to a higher level.

“He’s got the physical qualities that we’ve been missing for a while, that’s why we had to do what we had to do to get him because he’s really important for us… I see him like a lighthouse, he will light (up) the others and improve the others, and make the team better,” explained Arteta.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 15: Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with new signing Declan Rice at Emirates Stadium on July 15, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arteta also praised Rice’s ambition and passion for the game, stating that these qualities are exactly what Arsenal needs at this stage. The manager believes that Rice’s presence will elevate the performance of his teammates and instill a winning hunger within the squad.

With three signings already completed in this transfer window, Arsenal is showing their determination to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming season. Alongside Rice, Arsenal secured 24-year-old Kai Havertz from Chelsea for £65 million and 22-year-old defender Jurrien Timber from Ajax in a deal worth €40 million plus €5 million add-ons.

The Gunners are clearly focused on building a competitive team that can challenge for titles. The signings of Rice, Havertz, and Timber demonstrate Arsenal’s commitment to improving their squad’s depth, flexibility, and quality.

As the new season approaches, Arsenal fans will be eagerly anticipating the impact these new signings will have on the team. With Rice’s leadership and physical presence, combined with the talents of Havertz and Timber, Arsenal is poised to make a strong statement in the Premier League.

Under Arteta’s guidance, the Gunners will be looking to build on their previous successes and compete at the highest level. The manager’s belief in Rice’s abilities and his vision for the team’s future bodes well for Arsenal as they aim to return to their former glory.