Arteta reveals how they beat Man City, Bayern to Declan Rice

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has revealed that the player's keen interest in joining the club aided in the completion of the transfer.

Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham in the summer for a reported €116 million fee amid interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester City.

The 24-year-old has had a revolutionary impact at Arsenal, scoring crucial goal after crucial goal on top of his defensive duties, and Arteta is pleased with his performances.

Speaking ahead of their Premier League clash against Aston Villa at Villa Park, the Spanish manager explained how Rice pushed for a move to Arsenal amid interest from other top teams.

"When I spoke to Declan Rice, he mentioned to me many times from day one: I just want to play for Arsenal and I want to play with you,” he said, per Fabrizio Romano.

"He maintained his word to the last moment and we were good enough to acquire him."

Meanwhile, waving his Arsenal flag for all to see on social media, former Gunners playmaker Mesut Ozil taunted Tottenham following their recent slump in form.