Rice Calls on Former Club West Ham for Title-Clinching Favor
Declan Rice, a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s title charge, has reportedly been reaching out to his former West Ham teammates in hopes of securing a critical favor on the final day of the Premier League season.
Arsenal Needs West Ham to Upset Manchester City
Arsenal currently sits atop the Premier League table, but only by a narrow two-point margin. Their title hopes hinge on Manchester City dropping points in their final match against West Ham. A City victory would solidify their record-breaking fourth consecutive title, while a West Ham win or draw would open the door for Arsenal to claim the trophy if they win their own final game against Everton.
Declan Rice’s Message to West Ham
Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham last summer, is determined to end his first season at the Emirates Stadium on a high note by hoisting the Premier League trophy. According to West Ham defender Vladimir Coufal, Rice has been in contact with some of his former teammates ahead of their crucial clash with Manchester City.
“I think he [Declan Rice] was in touch with the English boys, but he didn’t text me!” Coufal said. “He’s an Arsenal player, so he cares about Arsenal and about their performance.”
Coufal went on to clarify that he himself had not been contacted by anyone at Arsenal, emphasizing that both teams are focused on their own objectives in the final matchday.
West Ham Motivated by More Than Arsenal’s Plight
While Rice attempts to sway his former teammates, West Ham finds themselves bombarded with messages from Arsenal supporters, all hoping the Hammers can spoil Manchester City’s title party. Coufal revealed that these messages have offered him everything from free coffee for life to playful taunts about potentially scoring his first Premier League goal.
“I’m really excited, to be honest,” Coufal admitted speaking to Skysports “I can’t wait to see the Premier League trophy for the first time… It would be a great story that West Ham can cancel the Manchester City hegemony.”
West Ham acknowledges the historical challenge they face. No team in Premier League history has surrendered the top spot on the final day and gone on to win the title. Additionally, Manchester City boasts an intimidating record against West Ham, having remained undefeated in their last 16 league meetings.
Despite the odds, Coufal highlights the opportunity that lies ahead for West Ham. “It’s nothing better than to have an option to decide the Premier League title,” he said. “We are not considering the title, but we can decide it, so that’s good.”
Moyes Insists West Ham Focused on Themselves
West Ham manager David Moyes downplayed any suggestion that he would prioritize helping his former player Rice by securing a positive result against Manchester City.
“No,” Moyes responded emphatically when asked about doing Rice a favor. “Everybody here loves Declan and remembers him but we’re not doing it for Declan. We’re doing it for ourselves, do the best we can.”
The stage is set for a dramatic final day in the Premier League. While Arsenal hopes rest on West Ham’s shoulders, the Hammers themselves have plenty of reasons to fight for a strong finish to their season.
