Arsenal told why Declan Rice could be first to leave if trophy drought continues | OneFootball

The £105m midfielder may soon get “itchy feet” without silverware

Action Images via Reuters

Rice has been a transformative signing for Mikel Arteta since arriving for £105million two years ago and was instrumental in Arsenal reaching the Champions League last four by scoring two free kicks against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.

But Rio Ferdinand believes Rice, who won the Conference League with West Ham weeks before leaving, would be among the first to get starting looking elsewhere should Arsenal continue to fluff their lines in search of silverware.

If you’re not winning trophies, I could see him maybe getting itchy feet at least

Rio Ferdinand on Declan Rice

"I think Declan is a bit of a throwback, there’s a difference to him," Ferdinand said on the latest episode of Rio Ferdinand Presents.

"He would want to get the job done [win trophies] before he thought about going anywhere. I think he would be that type. I could be wrong but from knowing Declan, I think that’s where he would sit."

Ferdinand then added: "If he goes another season without winning then maybe he might start looking ... Declan hasn’t gone to Arsenal for money or fame. He’s gone there to try and improve himself and win.

"If you’re not doing that, I could see him maybe getting itchy feet at least, but I think it’s too early to say."

Rio Ferdinand speaking on his podcast on Monday

Rio Presents/YouTube

Ferdinand was responding to comments made by Jamie Carragher, who suggested Rice may start having serious "doubts" about his future at the Emirates if Arsenal continue failing to win trophies.

"I don’t think right now, I think maybe for other players who’ve been there a bit longer," Carragher said on Sky Sports following Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool last weekend.

"But in terms of Declan, I think he’s been Arsenal’s best player this season. I think those doubts maybe kick in in another 12 months."