Mikel Arteta believes that Declan Rice has now become one of the most important players for Arsenal and is keen for him to commit his future to the Emirates Stadium.
Following an outstanding week for Arsenal, Rice played a key role in all three matches, helping the Gunners to secure great results.
Given his leadership and quality on the pitch, Rice is quickly becoming the modern-day Patrick Vieira and is undoubtedly one of the best midfielders in Europe.
The North London club are hoping to tie down the 26-year-old to a new deal at some stage, and his manager believes he has fully merited improved terms.
Mikel Arteta is keen for Declan Rice to sign a new contract at Arsenal
Mikel Arteta has admitted that he is keen for Declan Rice to sign a new contract at Arsenal, given the important player he has become for the team.
Rice’s game has taken a big step up at Arsenal this season, with the arrival of Martin Zubimendi making a notable difference.
The Spanish midfielder has allowed Rice to take up more advanced positions, and he looks so much better in the number eight role.
Mikel Arteta is keen for Arsenal to secure Declan Rice’s future…
Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Brentford, Arteta told the media: “That’s the way I perceived him, that he could potentially be a lighthouse, and now he’s become a lighthouse, which is very difficult to do at a big club like Arsenal.
“But he fully deserves that he’s done it with every step in the way, first of all, behaving, with his performance and attitudes that are at the highest level.
“Yeah, he’s one that I’m sure myself and the club are going to have here for many years.”
Should the Gunners manage to tie him down to a new contract, that would be one of the best deals they could make, alongside the renewal of William Saliba.
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