"Probably a year or two ago, yes, but now being with him every single day, understanding and connecting with him in the way I have done, we are going to get more. Because he wants more, the team knows him better, his role is growing around the team. The impact he has on the team, it's huge. I knew him for a long time [before signing] and I knew how he could evolve and change the team. He has certainly done it and probably improved on those expectations."
"I would have to think about it but most of the time, if you have the option to see a player live and sense him, get that energy, presence and charisma, on top of his qualities, it's something else. Probably when he was around I said, 'hmm, that's a special player.'"
Mikel Arteta expects further improvement from Declan Rice despite Rice already showing impressive consistency over the past 12 months. Rice voted for Moisés Caicedo in his 2024-25 team of the year while debate over the better player continues. The trio of Rice, Enzo Fernández and Caicedo cost more than £300 million combined and rank among the Premier League's best this season. Arteta credits Rice's desire for more, growing role, and stronger team understanding for his increasing impact. Rice transitioned from a deeper West Ham role to an advanced midfield position at Arsenal, unlocking new levels to his game. Arteta valued live scouting to sense a player's energy, presence and charisma before signing.
Read at ESPN.com
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