West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice has announced his departure from the club, expressing the difficulty of his decision but emphasizing his ambition to play at the highest level of the game. The 24-year-old England international is expected to join Arsenal in a deal worth £100 million, with an additional £5 million in add-ons.
In an open letter addressed to the Hammers fans, Rice acknowledged the overwhelming emotions surrounding his imminent move. He expressed gratitude for the support he received from the West Ham faithful, who embraced him from the early days of his career. Rice reminisced about the honour of playing in front of the fans, highlighting the cherished memories they created together.
While acknowledging the tough decision to leave a club he held dear, Rice made it clear that his primary motivation was his ambition to compete at the highest level. The midfielder, who scored 15 goals in 245 appearances for West Ham, has been an integral part of the team since joining the club’s academy at the age of 14.
Rice’s journey at West Ham has been marked by significant milestones. He signed his first professional contract in 2015 and made his senior debut the following year. He assumed the captain’s armband after Mark Noble’s retirement in 2022 and played a crucial role in West Ham’s victorious campaign in the Europa Conference League, ending a 43-year trophy drought.
Expressing mixed emotions about facing West Ham as an opponent for the first time, Rice assured the fans that he would always give his all whenever he dons his new club’s jersey. He acknowledged that his professional loyalties now lie with Arsenal while expressing gratitude for the values instilled in him during his time at West Ham.
Arsenal’s successful bid for Rice, their third attempt after two previous rejections, culminated in his departure from West Ham. Premier League champions Manchester City had also shown interest in signing the talented midfielder but withdrew their offer after it fell short of West Ham’s valuation.
West Ham’s joint chairman, David Sullivan, emphasized the club’s desire to retain Rice and build the team around him. However, once Rice made his intentions clear, the club respected his wishes and acted in its best interests. Sullivan praised Rice’s contributions to the club and noted his place in history alongside iconic figures like Bobby Moore and Billy Bonds.
As Rice embarks on a new chapter in his career, Hammers fans bid him a fond farewell, acknowledging his commitment and passion throughout his time at the club. His departure leaves a significant void at West Ham, but his contributions will be forever etched in the hearts of the supporters and within the club’s history.

