“I Told You He Was Worth £150m” – Declan Rice’s Value and the £50m Arsenal Still Owe Us
When West Ham United agreed to a British record £105 million deal with Arsenal for the transfer of Declan Rice in the summer of 2023, the football world lit up with debate. Critics on both sides argued the fee was inflated. Arsenal fans questioned whether he was truly worth nine figures. Pundits wondered if he had the ceiling to justify such a massive price tag. But some of us—especially the West Ham faithful—knew. We knew Declan Rice was worth every penny. In fact, some of us went further: we said he was worth £150 million. And we got laughed at for it.
Now? We’re collecting receipts.
A year into his Arsenal career, Rice has arguably been one of the most transformative signings in the Premier League. He hasn’t just lived up to expectations—he’s exceeded them. Defensive solidity, tactical awareness, leadership, goal contributions, and a relentless engine… Rice has brought all of it to the Emirates, and then some.
So when I bump into an Arsenal fan, I don’t let them off easy. I smile and remind them, “You still owe us £50 million.”
From East London’s Crown Jewel to North London’s General
Declan Rice was never just a defensive midfielder. At West Ham, he grew into a captain, a leader, and the beating heart of the squad. While stats alone never captured his full impact, his presence in midfield was undeniable. He controlled games with the composure of a seasoned veteran, and off the pitch, he embodied everything the club stood for.
When West Ham lifted the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy in 2023, it felt like the perfect send-off. Rice left not just as a player sold, but as a legacy secured.
Arsenal’s Gain – A Bargain in Disguise?
Now wearing the red and white, Rice has added another layer to Arsenal’s midfield. He’s provided the defensive coverage that freed up others to attack, scored crucial goals, and brought a calm authority to high-pressure moments. In big games, he’s delivered. Against Manchester City, Liverpool, and United—Rice has held his own or even dominated.
So yes, when we said he was worth £150 million, it wasn’t blind loyalty or bias—it was insight. And it’s only taken one season for the world to see what we saw all along.
The Transfer Market Doesn’t Lie (Forever)
In a world where midfielders routinely fetch £100 million-plus fees—some without Premier League experience, some with more hype than output—Rice’s move is starting to look like a bargain in hindsight. Arsenal got a complete player, ready-made for title challenges, and still entering his prime.
So to the Arsenal fans reading this: enjoy Declan. He’s brilliant, and he’s yours now. But don’t forgetyou still owe us £50 million.
