Declan Rice outlines his ambition, confidence and growing belief as Arsenal push towards major honours this season.
Declan Rice has explained he joined Arsenal because of his belief in Mikel Arteta’s vision, insisting the squad now have the hunger required to end the club’s long wait for a Premier League title, and that he wants to be included in Ballon d’Or discussions.
Arsenal sit five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the table, with Rice convinced the players are driven to reward their manager’s project by delivering the club’s first league crown in 22 years.
“That’s why I joined this football club. I fully believed in the manager’s vision,” Rice said.
“He gives us the platform to go and play. But it’s on us to take the responsibility and go and win, and I can sense that this year. I can feel that fire in our tummies, to go and do it, for sure.”
Rice believes next month’s Carabao Cup final against Manchester City offers an opportunity to establish momentum heading into the decisive phase of the season.
“I’m buzzing. It’s everything we’ve been working towards,” he said.
“It’s the first trophy that’s up for grabs. It’s one that you can take and then after that, go on in the Premier League and have full momentum.
“We’re in a really good position now that we’re in the final and now we have a chance to go and win it.
“But where it’s in March, and then you still have two months left of the Prem, it’s a real momentum builder. So it’s one that we’re definitely looking to go and win.”
On his own performances, Rice admitted confidence has played a significant role in his campaign.
“There’s been points this season where I’ve felt unstoppable at times,” he said.
“There’s no better feeling than going onto a football pitch with confidence.”
The midfielder also acknowledged ambitions to elevate both his individual output and standing within the game as Arsenal pursue major honours.
“It’s unreal, obviously. You want to be involved in those [Ballon d’Or] conversations,” Rice said.
“But also you see the recent Ballon d’or winners, what they’ve won during their season.
“Hopefully, we can have a successful season and I can be involved in those conversations. That would be amazing.
“I need 10 to 15 goals a season, minimum, in all competitions.
“I can make more runs, I can be set more with the ball, I can take more shots.
“There’s just more risks I can take in front of goal. That’s the next level for me now, because I have the ability to do it.”
Arsenal’s 4-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur extended their record against London opposition to 18 wins, six draws and one defeat from the past 25 such matches.
They remain unbeaten against Chelsea since August 2021 and conclude the campaign with three of their final five fixtures at home, including derbies against Fulham, West Ham and Crystal Palace.
A trip to Manchester City represents their only remaining away match against a current top-half side.