“That’s why” – Declan Rice reveals reason behind Manchester City rejection in favour of Arsenal

Manchester City were rejected by England star Declan Rice last summer transfer window in favour of the “more exciting” project over at Arsenal, the player has revealed.

In late June, it was widely reported that Etihad Stadium officials had sent a formal bid to West Ham United for Declan Rice, with Manchester City proposing a deal worth £80 million plus a further £10 million in add-ons.

With that opening proposal rejected by the London Stadium club, Arsenal returned with their own improved proposal of £105 million, comprising of an initial £100 million and an extra £5 million in add-ons.

Manchester City would go on to pull themselves out of the race for the player having set very strict budgets around the England international, with Rice going on to finalise a switch to the North London club.

Speaking during an exclusive interview with The Athletic this week, Declan Rice has been quizzed on his decision to reject an approach from Manchester City last summer in favour of Mikel Arteta’s project at the Emirates Stadium.

“I know,” Declan Rice responded with a smile, when reminded of the fact that he could have been playing alongside Rodri at Manchester City during the ongoing season, as opposed to against the Spaniard in the Premier League title battle.

“But this project seemed more exciting and that’s why I chose to come to Arsenal, because I believe we’re on to big things here,” Rice continued on his decision to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium over the Etihad.

For now, it remains to be seen whether Rice’s decision to join Arsenal over Manchester City will pay off at the first time of asking, with the two sides embroiled in a hotly-contested Premier League title battle.

City find themselves with the direction of the Premier League title firmly in their hands however, knowing that should they win the remainder of their four top-flight matches, they would be crowned champions once again.