Mikel Arteta has expressed strong confidence that Declan Rice will sign a new long-term contract at Arsenal, stating that securing the midfielder’s future is merely a formality.
Mikel Arteta backs Declan Rice to commit long-term future to Arsenal
Arteta: Rice Wants to Stay at Arsenal for the Long Term
The Gunners boss remains relaxed about the situation, revealing that his extensive conversations with the England international indicate a mutual desire to continue their partnership.
Rice has cemented his status as a pivotal figure in North London since his high-profile transfer from West Ham United.
“My feeling is that he’s very happy here, in every conversation I have with him, and he wants to continue here for the long term,” Arteta stated.
“It will be a matter of time before we sort that.”
Beyond the contractual talks, Arteta lavished praise on the midfielder’s relentless consistency.
The manager highlighted the immense physical and mental demands he places on Rice, noting that the player continues to deliver at an elite level regardless of the pressure.
“What we are demanding him to do every year is very difficult to maintain,” Arteta added. “He’s doing it, a big credit to him.”
Attention now shifts to a crucial Premier League clash, with Arsenal preparing to face Liverpool at Anfield. Arteta anticipates that Rice will once again rise to the occasion on Merseyside.
He described the fixture as a stage for “big players for big matches.” The Arsenal manager emphasized the need for a top-tier performance from Rice and the rest of the squad to secure a vital three points away from home.
