Arteta said he was 'mad' on signing Declan Rice in the summer

 Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted he was right to 'go mad' for the signing of Declan Rice in the summer transfer window. 

The former West Ham captain joined London rivals Arsenal for a record fee of £105million during the summer, and has helped propel the Gunners' title charge after falling short in the 2022-23 campaign. 

Arteta expressed his admiration for Rice, acknowledging that he was 'mad' on signing him from the Hammers due to his 'presence' on the pitch. 

The Gunners' boss described Rice's 'presence' as 'something special on the pitch'.  

Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham for a club-record fee of £105 million and has made a significant impact, contributing to Arsenal's title contention.

The Arsenal boss said: 'There were a lot of question marks and that's something you have to overcome because they're going to be looking at every stat and every movement that you make. 

'He's very intelligent to manage that.' The Arsenal boss said. 

'I love his presence on the pitch. He's there and he's got something special. I felt it when I played against him, that's why I was mad to sign him. 

'You get a feeling about players and I wanted him to be part of our team.

'When they put the price tag you have to carry that and it is not easy. He has done it in a brilliant way.' Arteta added. 

The Spaniard highlighted Rice's versatility, noting his recent role in a deeper position and suggested that he could excel as a No.8 or even as a centre back if needed.

Arsenal host Rice's former club West Ham on Thursday night in the Premier League as they look to go top of the table with a win at the Emirates.