Rice reveals his conversation with West Ham coach on joining Arsenal
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice gave an exclusive interview to 'FourFourTwo' and spoke about his farewell with West Ham manager David Moyes before moving to the Emirates Stadium.
Declan Rice joined Arsenal for £105 million in the summer transfer window after playing his entire career for West Ham. The 24-year-old became one of the most expensive signings in Gunners history.
However, it was not easy for the midfielder to leave his boyhood club and he revealed in an interview with 'FourFourTwo' that he had an emotional conversation with current Hammers manager David Moyes.
"I called [West Ham coach] David Moyes and we had a really nice conversation. I felt like we owed it to each other to speak – I have so much respect for him," he said.
"I texted the manager ahead of the first game this season, simply to say, ‘Good luck for the season and see you soon’. He replied, which was nice. I want to keep a positive relationship with him because he was so good to me, and the supporters were, too.
"They’re special. I know it’s hard when you see a player move on to another club, but I’m sure they understand – hopefully when I see them again, I’ll be able to say goodbye properly."