July 15th 2023.
Declan Rice has bid a bittersweet farewell to West Ham fans as his move to Arsenal was finally confirmed on Saturday. After already writing his name into the history books with a British record transfer fee of £105 million, the England international took to penning an emotional letter to the loyal, passionate and devoted Hammers.
For Rice, the decision to leave West Ham was a difficult one. He has spent the entirety of his professional career at the club and the 24-year-old was also keen to thank the fans for their support from day one. Even when it was just a handful of supporters at the Under-18 or Under-23 games, Rice could feel the love from the Hammers and it only became stronger as the years went by.
Rice revealed that his ambition to play at the highest level of the game was the primary motivation behind his decision to join Arsenal. The Gunners' return to the Champions League after a six-year absence was also a strong factor in his decision. Rice also expressed his admiration for the West Ham supporters and made clear that his love and respect for them had not been diminished in any way.
The 24-year-old acknowledged that playing against West Ham for the first time would be an unusual experience. However, he promised to always give 100% every time he pulls on the shirt, as that is how he was brought up throughout his time with the Hammers.
Rice concluded his emotional farewell letter by saying that, despite his move to Arsenal, West Ham and its supporters will always remain in his heart and forever be a part of who he is.
It's clear that Rice will always have a special place in his heart for West Ham and its fans. We wish him the best of luck for his new adventure at Arsenal, and look forward to seeing what the future holds.
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