Arsenal legend Arsene Wenger hails Rice signing as ‘good investment’

Arsenal great Arsene Wenger has heralded the signing of English midfielder Declan Rice from West Ham in a £105 million deal as a good investment after the Gunners completed their third signing of the summer.

Wenger is regarded as one of Arsenal’s greatest-ever coaches after leading the club to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cup titles to become the Gunners’ most decorated manager of all time.

The French gaffer remains the last Arsenal manager to win the Premier League, doing so in 2004, and is also credited with playing a crucial role in the Gunners’ move to the Emirates Stadium from Highbury.

Now acting as FIFA’s Chief of Global Football, Wenger commented on Arsenal’s capture of Rice, even though he noted that it is a move he would have been unable to make during his time as Gunners’ head coach.

Wenger was speaking to Eurosport at the Tour de France when he was asked about the club’s recent transfer activity and he responded positively saying, “I think it is a good investment. Overall, personally, I think they have made good buys as they are players who are now mature, 23,24, and still young so can stay together for a few years.”

The 73-year-old Frenchman, who was known for his frugality while managing Arsenal, also mentioned that although he was unable to make such huge investments in the squad white he was boss, he understood the Gunners’ recent approach in the transfer market.

He told Eurosport, “I had to cope with no money at all, so you have to find a different way.

“Arsenal is now in a good financial situation and bought what they think will win the championship.”

The Gunners finished second in the Premier League last season but made a huge stride forward after contesting for the title for the first time since Wenger left his post as manager.