Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has expressed his determination to go all the way in the Champions League after the Gunners opened their group-stage campaign with a 1-0 victory over Napoli away from home.
Speaking in the mixed zone after the match, Rice reflected on Arsenal’s impressive start to the season, with the club winning all five of their competitive fixtures, including the Community Shield, while conceding just once.
He said getting off to a strong start was crucial, adding that manager Mikel Arteta had demanded higher standards from the squad since their return to pre-season training.
“Indeed, at this stage of the season, the most important thing is to start well and build momentum. Since the first day the team returned to training, the coach has been pushing us to raise our standards and give our all in all competitions this new season. We’ve had a great start, and next we face Sunderland away, which will be a very tough match.”
Rice, who has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or for the second consecutive year, admitted he was proud of the recognition but also backed England teammate Harry Kane to win the prestigious award.
“Of course, being nominated for the second consecutive year is remarkable in itself, and I am very proud. I certainly aspire to win this trophy, but I also very much hope that Kane can win it. I genuinely wish him all the best.”
The midfielder also revealed that he used his summer break to fully recover from previous injury problems, taking three weeks away from training.
“Yes, this summer I had a complete three-week rest without any training, allowing my body to fully recover. I returned to the team refreshed and ready to start fresh. I’m in great form now and hope to maintain it.”
Rice praised Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard for returning to his best after a difficult campaign disrupted by injuries.
“He has world-class ability, there’s never been any doubt about that. Last year, he suffered two shoulder injuries and a meniscus injury, which would be tough for any player. But look at his performance in the World Cup and his start to this season; that’s the Ødegaard we know and love. He has already scored 3 goals and is our captain. We need to keep feeding him the ball and let him create opportunities.”
Responding to concerns about his heavy workload after featuring in 69 matches for club and country last season, Rice said his experience over the past six years had prepared him for the demands.
“Over the past six seasons, starting from my time at West Ham United and including European competition, I’ve played more than 60 games each season, so I believe it’s sustainable. Past experience has proven that I can do it.”
He added that remaining fit and maintaining consistent performances were his main priorities.
“The key is to maintain form and ensure consistent performance. For me, the most important thing is to play every week, perform well, and help the team win. I’m fortunate to have always been able to do these things, and I’m eager to do so again this new season.”
Rice admitted that his experience at the World Cup had been frustrating because of recurring hamstring problems and the physical demands of the tournament following a long domestic and European campaign.
“It was indeed very difficult. Everyone knows about my hamstring issues. After an intense Premier League and Champions League season, having to participate in the World Cup was too much of a physical burden. Whenever I wore the England jersey, I wanted to be energetic and give my all.”
He said inconsistent fitness affected his performances during the tournament, while illness ahead of the Norway match compounded his difficulties.
“During that period, sometimes I was in good form, other times not at my best. I also got sick before the match against Norway, which made things even worse. Many things frustrated me, mainly that I couldn’t perform at 100%.”
Rice, however, pointed to his performance against DR Congo as one of the occasions when he was able to deliver despite managing his physical condition.
“However, there were also matches where I played well, such as against DR Congo. I had to manage my body while playing. As I said, I rested completely over the summer to let my body heal, and now I feel great.”
The Arsenal star also welcomed the opportunity to face former Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne again, despite the Belgian posing a threat during Napoli’s defeat.
“It feels great. Even though we won tonight’s match, he still posed a lot of threats. He has extremely high football intelligence and always finds excellent space. Having played against him for so many years, it’s a wonderful feeling to meet him on the field again.”
With Bruno Guimarães adding further quality to Arsenal’s midfield, Rice said the competition for places would benefit the team and push every midfielder to perform at a high level.
“I feel very fortunate to play alongside these teammates. We have six outstanding midfielders. No matter who the coach selects, I will support my teammates. I experienced the feeling of winning the title last season, and that is my goal again this year. With this midfield lineup, no matter who plays, everyone will support each other. I am very much looking forward to starting this season with everyone; it will be a special journey.”
Rice also made clear that Arsenal’s desire to conquer Europe remained strong following their painful Champions League final defeat last season.
“Of course, we also have new signings this season. Looking back at our Champions League journey in recent years, we have the strength to challenge for the title; we just need to take that crucial step. It’s only September, and there’s a long way to go in the Champions League, with many tough matches ahead.”
He said Arsenal were ready to embrace the challenge, with the memory of losing the final still motivating the squad.
“We need to embrace the challenge and see where this journey takes us. This is why we play football. Losing the Champions League final is a painful feeling, and watching PSG lift the trophy is etched in my memory. So, let’s see what happens in the Champions League this season.”
