Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has reacted to the nickname given to him by his teammates in North London.
It’s been a memorable year at Arsenal for Declan Rice, who joined Mikel Arteta’s project from West Ham last summer.
The Englishman made an instant impact in the squad, being an ever-reliable figure in the engine room, with his £105m price tag rarely mentioned.
As well as impressing on the pitch, Rice has come forward as a popular member in the dressing room, being a charismatic part of the squad.
Declan Rice reacts to hilarious nickname given to him by Arsenal teammates
Ahead of the 2024/25 season opener against Wolves, the squad participated in Arsenal’s media day.
The club shared lots of content as the players got together, with one hilarious admission coming from Rice.
When quizzed on what Olympic sport he’d have the best shot at claiming a medal in, the midfielder referenced his nickname within the dressing room.
As shared on an Instagram reel, Rice said, “Because the lads call me the horse, 5000m running, stamina, long legs, long stride.”
Aaron Ramsdale shared Rice’s nickname at the end of last season but this is the first time Rice has commented on the animal-themed name himself.
The 25-year-old laughed as he explained his nickname, giving an evaluation that rings true given the powerhouse he’s emerged as in Arsenal’s midfield.
Rice will be eyeing a strong second season at Arsenal
The only thing missing from Rice’s debut season at Arsenal was silverware, as the Gunners finished agonisingly short of Manchester City in the race for the Premier League title.
This term, Rice and his teammates will be gunning for glory, as Arteta hopes to deliver the first title since 2003/04 to North London.
It’s set to be a thrilling campaign for Arsenal and for Rice, who will be eager to continue his form in front of goal as well as being an immoveable force in midfield.
In the Premier League last season, the former West Ham captain contributed to a stellar 15 goals, scoring seven and assisting eight to prove doubters wrong as the progressive elements of his game dazzled.
For now, all eyes will be on the opening day against Wolves, where ‘the horse’ will hope to continue where he left off in red and white.
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