Arsenal‘s midfield powerhouse Declan Rice has revealed his nickname at the club: ‘the horse’.

The England star, entering his second season at the club, revealed this name while answering a question about which Olympic event would best suit him.

Arsenal's English midfielder #41 Declan Rice runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League Group B football match between Arsenal and Sevilla at the Emirates Stadium in north London on November 8, 2023. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s English midfielder #41 Declan Rice runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League Group B football match between Arsenal and Sevilla at the Emirates Stadium in north London on November 8, 2023. (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

The recent Olympic Games in Paris inspired a playful conversation amongst the Arsenal players, who were asked which events they’d excel at.

“Because the lads call me the horse – 5,000 metres final running,” Rice joked, referencing his renowned stamina and long strides.

While Rice picked the 5,000 metres, other players offered intriguing responses. Takehiro Tomiyasu opted for judo, William Saliba chose shooting, and Thomas Partey went with the javelin.

LONDON, ENGLAND: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal takes throw-in during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Olympique Lyonnais at Emirates Stadium on August 11, 2024. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal takes throw-in during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Olympique Lyonnais at Emirates Stadium on August 11, 2024. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

New signing Riccardo Calafiori, hinting at his boundless energy, declared he’d take on the marathon. Ben White settled on the 1,500 metres as he felt he’d embarrass himself the least in that event, while Kai Havertz humorously suggested breakdancing. David Raya favoured the shot put, and Bukayo Saka went for the long jump.