Arsenal vs Coventry: Arsenal v Paris Saint Germain - UEFA Champions League - Emirates Stadium A general view outside the Emirates Stadium, London ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Arsenal and Paris Saint Germain. Picture date: Tuesday October 1, 2024.
Arsenal vs Coventry: Arsenal v Paris Saint Germain - UEFA Champions League - Emirates Stadium A general view outside the Emirates Stadium, London ahead of the UEFA Champions League match between Arsenal and Paris Saint Germain. Picture date: Tuesday October 1, 2024.
Arsenal began the 2026/27 season in good form, winning their first seven games in all competitions, before a shock 3-0 defeat against Brighton. With the extended international break now over, the Gunners return to action on October 10 against Leeds United. Ahead of the visit of Leeds, Arsenal have received a huge boost, with the news that Declan Rice is close to agreeing a new contract, as reported by Sami Mokbel of the BBC.
Arsenal Ready to Battle Leeds After International Break
Declan Rice Close to Agreeing New Deal
Despite the loss to Brighton, Arsenal have plenty of reasons to be full of confidence, with Mikel Arteta recently signing a new 4-year-deal. With the announcement of his new deal, the Gunners boss said:
“This club is unique, its character and the way it makes you feel, and I have a great sense of privilege that our journey together will continue,” Arteta said.
“We have already built a special bond and created memories that will last a lifetime, and what is so exciting is that this is only the beginning of what we can achieve together.”
The good news has continued with the news that Rice, described by England boss Thomas Tuchel as one of the “best midfielders in Europe,” is close to agreeing a new long-term deal at the Emirates. Rice joined the Gunners in 2023 and was an integral part of last season’s Premier League success.
Rice is reportedly on £240,000 per week, but that figure will likely rise to be on par with the club’s top earner, Bukayo Saka, who himself is said to be on about £350,000 a week.
Football - FA Premier League - Brighton & Hove Albion FC v Arsenal FC BRIGHTON & HOVE, ENGLAND - Saturday, September 19, 2026: Arsenal s Declan Rice applauds the supporters after the FA Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and… | Source: Lastwordonsports.com - Ricky Carroll, Editor
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The Last Word
The importance of Declan Rice to the Gunners cannot be overstated. Quite frankly, Rice is a brilliant all-round midfielder, excelling at winning the ball back for his team, whether that be a tenacious tackle or a timely interception.
When he picks up the ball and progresses with it, he’s a joy to watch and very difficult to dispossess. His tactical awareness often sees him drop in and cover for teammates who have ventured forward, making him even more important to Arteta’s Gunners.
His ability at set pieces cannot be ignored, whether scoring a screaming goal from a free kick or whipping in a dangerous corner or free kick. Tying Rice to a new deal would be a huge move for the North London team and allow them to plan further in the future with the 27-year-old at the forefront of their plans.
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