July 15th 2023.
West Ham United have confirmed that Declan Rice is departing the club to join Arsenal for a British record transfer fee. This follows his landmark Europa Conference League triumph with the Hammers last season, as well as his desire to leave for a new challenge.
Mikel Arteta had been eager to make Rice his top summer target, and the Gunners have been successful in their negotiations to sign the 24-year-old England international, despite rival interest from Manchester City.
The decision to let Rice go has been a difficult one for everyone at West Ham United, however the £105 million cash injection should help to sweeten the deal and give manager David Moyes the chance to strengthen his squad.
Joint-Chair David Sullivan said: “I am sorry to see Declan leave us, but I believe that everyone at West Ham United should be very proud of the part we have played in his journey from the Academy of Football at Chadwell Heath to becoming the most valuable young player in English football. We did not want to sell Declan and tried to build our team around him with various long-term contract offers. Nonetheless, when Declan made it clear that he wished to move on, we felt it would not be right to stand in his way, acting in the best interests of West Ham United.
“Declan will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Hammers fans and everyone here at the Club. He has earned his place in history alongside Bobby Moore and Billy Bonds as the only players to have captained West Ham United to a major trophy, and has always given absolutely everything for the football club. We wish him well for the future and he will always be an inspiration and an example to any young player coming through our Academy.”
Moyes also expressed his gratitude to Rice for his commitment to West Ham United, whilst stressing that no player is ever bigger than the Club:
“I’d like to personally thank Declan for everything he has done during his time at West Ham United. It is sad to say goodbye to someone who has been with us for so long but we must now look forward. Our entire focus is now on building upon the success we enjoyed last season, adding to our UEFA Europa Conference League title winning squad and continuing to develop the best young talent through our Academy.”
Rice leaves the Hammers having etched his name into the clubs history. Despite the sadness of his imminent departure, West Ham United can be proud of their part in helping him become the most valuable young player in English football.
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