Declan Rice has formed a great relationship with every Arsenal player since he joined them from West Ham United.
The England international became the Gunners’ record signing in the summer of 2023. He was Mikel Arteta’s top target then, and the Arsenal boss got him in after weeks of negotiations.
Rice has been absolutely incredible in the famous red and white. He has performed brilliantly as a number six, but he has been even better as a box-to-box midfielder.
The Arsenal number 41 is enjoying his advanced role, but he thinks that is only possible because of the brilliance of one of his teammates.
Declan Rice says Thomas Partey doesn’t get the credit he deserves
Thomas Partey is close to completing five years as an Arsenal player.
The Ghanaian joined the Gunners on deadline day in 2020, and apart from the times when he has been injured, he has been sensational for the Gunners.
When Arsenal signed Declan Rice in 2023, many people felt that the England star would be Partey’s successor in that number six role.
But, the former West Ham man has formed a terrific partnership with the Ghana international, and he has now raved about him.
Rice has claimed that Partey has allowed him to become a ‘better player’. He also feels that the former Atletico Madrid man is often underappreciated.
He said in a press conference in Paris, as relayed on HaytersTV: “Total calmness. I think playing with Thomas, I’ve realised, one of the best things about him is, on the pitch, how calm he is with the football and the calmness he brings to the team.
“It’s really special to play with a player like him. Before I came to Arsenal, there was so much talk about Thomas and how good he is.
“Not always he gets the recognition he deserves, but playing with him closely and training with him every day, for sure, he allows me to be a better player because of the way he plays.
Arsenal have a big Thomas Partey dilemma
Partey has arguably had the best season of his Arsenal career in 2024/25.
The midfielder hasn’t had any injury issues this term. He has consistently been available, and his presence makes the Gunners a much better side.
In July, as things stand, Partey’s contract at Arsenal will expire, and he will be able to walk away on a free transfer.
Arsenal are considering extending Partey’s deal, but does it really make sense for them to offer a big contract to a player who will turn 32 next month?
If the finances are right, we think keeping Partey would be a good decision, but it remains to be seen if the two parties can come to an agreement over that in the coming weeks.
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