Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has spoken of his devastation after his former club West Ham United were relegated from the Premier League. The Hammers finished 18th under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who now faces the sack, and will play in the Championship next season.
Emotional response
Rice, who left West Ham for Arsenal in a British-record £105 million move in 2023, took to Instagram to share his feelings. He wrote: "I'm absolutely gutted to see West Ham relegated. A club that really does mean so much to me. As I said before, I wouldn't be where I am today without everything the club has done for me."
The England international added: "With that being said, I have no doubt they will be back where they belong in the Premier League in no time. I will be supporting always." He concluded the message with a red heart emoji.
Relegation confirmed
West Ham's 3-0 win over Leeds on Sunday proved futile as Tottenham secured their top-flight survival with a victory against Everton. Rice, who helped Arsenal beat Crystal Palace earlier that day, was seen reacting angrily upon hearing the news of his old side's relegation.
The 27-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season with Arsenal, driving them to the Premier League title and the Champions League final. However, he has never forgotten his roots at West Ham, where he was picked up as a teenager after being released by Chelsea. He went on to captain the club during his decade-long stay.
Reflecting on his career
Speaking after his departure from the London Stadium, Rice said: "It was definitely the hardest decision I've had to make so far in football. Everyone knows my love for West Ham still even now. But overall it was a fairytale ending for me (winning the Conference League)."
He continued: "I was obviously released at 14, went to West Ham, signed a two-year deal and once everything clicked in terms of my growth spurt, realised what position I am, put myself in a position where it was all or nothing really. I was kept in and around the first-team and once I made my debut I've not looked back since. I can't explain the feelings, you know people leave clubs and you know they lose affiliation with that club."
Rice's message has been met with support from West Ham fans, who appreciate his continued loyalty. The club will now look to rebuild and secure an immediate return to the Premier League under new leadership.
