Declan Rice has put a stop to speculations that he discussed teaming forces with best friend Mason Mount at the same club this summer.
As rumours arose about the England teammates reuniting at Mount’s former club Chelsea or their new clubs, Arsenal or Manchester United, Rice claimed that such talks never took place.
In an exclusive interview with ESPN, the 24-year-old midfielder clarified the situation, saying, “I read loads of bits that said me and him were speaking, saying that we’d always end up at the same club, but it wasn’t like that at all. I’ve got to do what’s best for my career, Mase has got to do what’s best for his career.”
Rice revealed that they were focused on making individual decisions about their futures, as they found themselves at crucial junctures in their respective careers simultaneously.
While they supported each other throughout the process, Rice stated that their situations were distinct.
“We never really had that chat, I know he was going through a tough time at Chelsea with a few things, and of course, I was there for him and he was there for me,” Rice said. “But obviously my situation was very different compared to his.”
Despite not joining forces at the same club, the bond between the two friends remains strong. Rice expressed his happiness for Mount’s move to Manchester United and revealed that they spoke recently after a game. “He’s so happy to be at United, and I’m so happy to be here at Arsenal,” Rice added.
Declan Rice’s transfer to Arsenal was completed for a reported £105 million, soon after Mason Mount’s £65 million switch to Manchester United.
