Arsenal was my destination following a decade at West Ham United; however, there is one aspect of the experience that I will never adapt to.

Declan Rice, an Arsenal midfielder, is currently in his second season with the club, but he still finds it “odd” to face his former team, West Ham United, after spending a decade at the latter.

Since July 2023, the completion of a £100 million transfer, the England player has been a critical asset to the Gunners. On Saturday evening, Arsenal will visit the London Stadium, where he will face his former team.

He will be facing the Hammers for the fourth time since graduating from the club’s academy. The initial and second games were abysmal for Arsenal, as they were defeated in both.

However, the most recent game was a resounding success, as Rice scored and provided two assists in a 6-0 victory.

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I intended to retire at Arsenal, but I was compelled to depart when West Ham approached.

Gabriel’s suggestion and Jurrien Timber’s new role are among the four observations made during Arsenal’s training session prior to their match against West Ham.

Rice recounted his emotions regarding his performance and scoring against West Ham in an interview with ESPN earlier this year.

“It was extremely challenging.” We were defeated by them in the cup. He stated, “We were defeated in the league at the Emirates; I failed to perform well and conceded a penalty.”

“The West Ham fans taunted me, and I am entirely capable of accepting it. I was a member of the team for a decade, and I am well-versed in their operations.”

“I have consistently maintained that I will never celebrate against West Ham, and I am uncertain that I will ever do so.” They shaped my identity.

I have been there for a decade, and I am deeply indebted to them.

“I would never celebrate; I believe that would be extremely disrespectful.” In general, it was a really good day to score and win, but it was a bittersweet sensation.