Published on 01.11.2023
Mikel Arteta anticipates that Declan Rice’s potential return to West Ham will be a heartwarming experience if the Arsenal manager chooses to include the midfielder in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match.
The 24-year-old English international made a cross-town move during the summer, with Arsenal breaking their club record by paying £105 million to secure his services from the Hammers. Rice, who captained West Ham to victory in the Europa Conference League final after 245 appearances for the club he joined at the age of 14, may be poised for his first visit back to east London after impressing in the early stages of his Arsenal career.
Arteta commented on the significance of this visit: “It will be his inaugural return to his former club, and I believe it will be a touching moment for him.”
Arteta believes that West Ham supporters will warmly welcome Rice, noting, “Whenever he speaks about West Ham and the way they supported him and everyone at the club, he holds them in the highest regard. So, hopefully, they will reciprocate that sentiment.”
"He should be welcomed back with open arms" 💬
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) October 31, 2023
David Moyes on midfielder Declan Rice’s return to his former club ahead of their Carabao Cup game against Arsenal 🏟️🗣 pic.twitter.com/1RaVsjfp2m
West Ham’s manager, David Moyes, expressed his eagerness to see Rice again. During his press conference on Tuesday, Moyes mentioned, “I look forward to welcoming him back because he is the individual who lifted our first European trophy in 50 years. He should receive a warm reception.”
He added, “We are all excited to see him again. He led the team and conducted himself admirably during his time here. I haven’t had the opportunity to see Dec since he left. I’m not sure if I want him to play, but I hope he’s in attendance!”
