Declan Rice has lifted the lid on the intense psychological strain he endured as Arsenal secured their first Premier League title in 22 years. The England midfielder revealed he was so overwhelmed by the pressure that he physically removed himself from the team’s collective viewing of Manchester City’s decisive match against Bournemouth.
An unusual coping mechanism
During the most nerve-wracking moments of the title-clinching campaign, Rice took an unconventional approach to manage his stress. Instead of joining his teammates at London Colney, he opted to walk the club’s training grounds with security guard Pete. For the first 40 minutes, the duo strolled between pitches, chatting casually to keep their composure.
« We just wandered around, talking about everything and nothing, » Rice explained. « Then we heard the roar, so we came back just as the first goal went in. I thought to myself, ‘Here we go again.’ We returned with five minutes left, and it was all over—but I still couldn’t bring myself to watch the final moments. »
Bukayo Saka, another key figure in Arsenal’s triumph, described Rice’s ritual as « ridiculous. » « He must have done about twelve laps of the training ground, » Saka laughed. « The rest of us were glued to the TV—he couldn’t even look at it. It was hilarious. »
A moment of redemption
Acquired by Arsenal in 2023, Rice admitted this achievement was deeply personal. « It’s an incredibly emotional moment for me, » he shared. « A 22-year wait finally over. » He praised Saka, a club legend since childhood, for embodying the spirit of Arsenal’s youth academy.
« Saka has been here since he was six or seven years old, » Rice said. « The pride he must feel—this is pure Arsenal. He’s a product of our academy, and what he’s accomplished is legendary. »
Rice, who joined Arsenal three years ago and suffered three agonizing near-misses in finals, confessed he had always believed in the team’s potential. « I knew we’d get here eventually. I felt it in my bones. The club, the players, the trajectory—everything pointed to this moment. And it happened in the most beautiful way possible. »
Celebrations that wouldn’t end
The euphoria spilled beyond the training ground. Saka disclosed that some players made an unplanned detour to the Emirates Stadium in the early hours, soaking in the adoration of the loyal Arsenal faithful who remained awake to celebrate.
« It was madness—absolute madness, » Saka said, his voice still raw with exhaustion. « I’m still trying to find it! The whole night was special, from the training ground to the party. And at the Emirates, we had an incredible time. I didn’t even feel like sleeping. »
Looking ahead: the Champions League final
With the Premier League trophy secured, Arteta’s side now sets its sights on a historic double. Their next challenge looms large: the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest on May 30.