Gerrard Reveals Liverpool’s Transfer ‘Wish’: Arsenal Star He Wanted to Sign
The admiration for Declan Rice’s ascent is reaching across rival lines in the Premier League. Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool legend, has publicly stated his regret that the Reds didn’t secure Rice’s signature before Arsenal did, a sentiment echoing through recent commentary following Arsenal’s Champions League victory over Bayer Leverkusen.
Gerrard, speaking to TNT Sports after Arsenal’s Champions League Round of 16 win, was effusive in his praise of the 27-year-old midfielder. “Winning the ball back, excellent finish, Declan Rice was Man of the Match and he is going from strength to strength as well,” Gerrard said. When pressed further on his assessment, he didn’t hesitate: “He’s one of the best in the world.” He went on to add, pointedly, “I wish we [Liverpool] signed him here, actually.”
Rice completed a club-record £105 million move to Arsenal in July 2023, after a distinguished career with West Ham United where he amassed over 200 senior appearances. Since arriving at the Emirates, Rice has demonstrably elevated his game, becoming a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad and a leading contender for Player of the Year honors. His performance in the Champions League against Leverkusen, where he found the back of the net, further solidified his reputation.
Gerrard’s comments aren’t simply a case of praising a talented player. They reveal a clear understanding of what Rice brings to a team – a combination of defensive prowess, tactical intelligence, and now, consistent goal-scoring ability. Gerrard specifically highlighted the role David Moyes played in Rice’s development at West Ham, stating that Moyes “schooled him on how to play the position tactically.” This acknowledgement underscores the importance of coaching and tactical grounding in Rice’s evolution.
The timing of Gerrard’s remarks is particularly noteworthy. Liverpool are navigating a period of transition, having recently concluded Jürgen Klopp’s tenure as manager. The midfield has been a focal point of discussion regarding the club’s future, and the acknowledgement that they missed out on a player of Rice’s caliber highlights a potential area where the Reds may have fallen short in recent transfer windows.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are enjoying the fruits of their investment. Rice has been instrumental in their Premier League title challenge this season, providing a defensive shield, dictating tempo, and contributing crucial goals. His arrival has not only improved the team’s overall performance but has also elevated the level of those around him.
The Liverpool Echo reported Gerrard as being “gutted” that the Reds didn’t secure Rice’s signature, emphasizing the long-held belief within the club that he would have been a perfect fit. This sentiment is echoed in reports from Metro.co.uk, which detail Gerrard’s belief that Rice has grow “one of the best midfielders in the world.”
The situation serves as a reminder of the fiercely competitive nature of top-level football and the importance of identifying and securing key targets. Arsenal’s success in landing Rice demonstrates their ambition and their ability to compete with the biggest clubs in Europe. Liverpool’s regret, as voiced by a club icon like Gerrard, underscores the high stakes involved in the transfer market and the potential consequences of missing out on a transformative player.
Looking ahead, Rice’s continued development will be crucial for both Arsenal and the England national team. At 27, he is entering his prime years, and his ability to consistently perform at the highest level will be a key factor in Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware and England’s ambitions in major tournaments. Gerrard’s assessment – that Rice is now among the world’s elite – is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the impact he is having on the game.
The narrative also raises questions about Liverpool’s midfield strategy in the years leading up to Rice’s availability. While the club has consistently fielded competitive teams, the acknowledgement from a figure as respected as Gerrard suggests a potential misstep in identifying and pursuing a player who could have significantly strengthened their squad. The future will reveal whether Liverpool can find a comparable solution to fill the void.