Mikel Arteta has praised Declan Rice for taking on a leadership role at Arsenal, even without wearing the captain’s armband.
The midfielder has proven to be an inspired signing for the Gunners since joining them in the summer from West Ham for £105 million.
Declan Rice has been outstanding for Arsenal this season, delivering in crucial matches, such as last weekend’s win over Liverpool. As a result, he has emerged as a leader in the Arsenal dressing room.
When asked if he could wear the armband if needed, Arteta responded in his latest press conference: “Obviously he has been captain at youth level, he has been captain for West Ham and he is one that sometimes doesn’t need to have the armband.
“When he talks, people listen and pay attention – and he has got the natural ability to do that.”
Rice has excelled at Arsenal despite his significant price tag, which brought extra pressure on his performances this season, and Arteta attributes this success to his upbringing.
“He has got an environment [and] a family that is very supportive, but as well very demanding of him and he has dealt with that in a great way.
“Then he loves what he does. He loves it every single day.”
Undoubtedly, Rice has put himself among the elite midfielders in the world with consistent excellent performances. And his ability on the pitch is married together with great leadership skills, highlighting how much he brings to Arsenal’s midfield.