Declan Rice has made the difficult decision to part ways with West Ham. The young midfielder’s desire to play “at the very highest level” has driven him to seek new opportunities, leaving behind the club that has shaped his career thus far.
Declan Rice’s desire to compete “at the very highest level” drove his difficult decision to depart from West Ham. The 24-year-old, who had been with the club for a decade, has now sealed a record-breaking £105 million transfer, making him the most expensive English player in history, as he prepares to join Arsenal.
Rice’s final act as a West Ham player was truly remarkable, as he became just the third captain in the club’s history, following in the footsteps of legends Bobby Moore and Billy Bonds, to hoist a major trophy after their recent triumph in the Europa Conference League against Fiorentina.
Nevertheless, the talented England international is yearning for the opportunity to compete in the prestigious Champions League, a chance that Arsenal can provide.
In a letter to fans, Rice said his goodbyes after “an absolute whirlwind of emotion” over the last few weeks.
“I want you to know how tough a decision it has been for me to leave an environment that I have loved and cherished so much,” he said.
“This club and its supporters will always be in my heart, and forever a part of who I am.
“Ultimately, though, it has only ever been about my ambition to play at the very highest level of the game.
“Playing on the opposite team to West Ham for the first time will be an unusual experience.
“I’m not sure yet exactly how I will feel, but I also know you will all understand and respect that my professional loyalties have to now lie with my new club.”
Follow us on all social media platform, @Sportscliffs on Twitter and Instagram and also like our facebook page
