Arsenal’s Unnecessary Dig at West Ham Over Declan Rice’s Ballon d’Or Nomination
The recent Ballon d’Or nomination of Declan Rice has sparked a unnecessary response from Arsenal, who seem determined to generate a rivalry with West Ham. Despite Rice’s respectful attitude towards his former club, Arsenal has taken a childish approach, highlighting the midfielder’s statistical output since joining the Gunners.
Rice’s journey from West Ham to Arsenal has been well-documented, with the midfielder making a number of comments about seeing football in a different way since leaving the Hammers. However, he has also made it clear that he will always love West Ham, refusing to celebrate his goal against them and posting a heartfelt message on the anniversary of their Europa Conference League triumph.
Arsenal’s official website has taken a withering jibe at West Ham, suggesting that Rice’s Ballon d’Or nomination is a result of his improved statistical output in their title-challenging team. The Gunners have even gone to the trouble of analysing Rice’s assists record at West Ham, highlighting that his total assists in 242 matches for the Hammers is only one more than his total in a single season with Arsenal.
This approach is not only childish but also unnecessary, as Rice has consistently shown respect to West Ham. His nomination for the Ballon d’Or is a testament to his hard work and dedication, regardless of the club he plays for.
The rivalry between Arsenal and West Ham is not historic, and it seems that the Gunners are trying to create a narrative that does not exist. Rice’s move to Arsenal was a result of his desire to play for a top-four club, and he has never spoken ill of West Ham.
In fact, Rice has always been grateful to West Ham for the opportunity they gave him, and he has never forgotten his roots. His donation of £5,000 to a Hammers academy star stricken with cancer is a testament to his love for the club.
Arsenal’s approach is not only damaging to their relationship with West Ham but also to their own reputation. The Gunners should focus on celebrating Rice’s nomination rather than trying to create a rivalry that does not exist.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s unnecessary dig at West Ham over Declan Rice’s Ballon d’Or nomination is a childish approach that highlights the club’s insecurity. Rice’s nomination is a testament to his hard work and dedication, regardless of the club he plays for.
The Gunners should focus on celebrating Rice’s achievement rather than trying to create a rivalry that does not exist. West Ham and Rice are at peace with each other, and Arsenal should respect that.