Manchester United Missed Out on Declan Rice Despite Interest from Solskjær and Ten Hag
Both Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Erik ten Hag identified Declan Rice as a player who could transform Manchester United’s midfield during their tenures as managers, but internal hesitations led to the club losing out to Arsenal, who signed him for a record £100 million.
Solskjær’s Admiration for Rice
Earlier this year, Solskjær expressed regret over Manchester United’s failure to secure Rice, revealing on The Overlap:
“I really like him [Declan Rice] as a player. We discussed him a few times, and I think we would’ve done well with him in midfield. His legs, covering the pitch… he’s improved a lot in his playmaking too. He would’ve cost some money, but we could’ve and should’ve gone for him.”
Ten Hag’s Agreement
Erik ten Hag shared Solskjær’s view on Rice, stating back in May that the England international would have “absolutely fitted in” at United. However, United stalled on a move during the summer transfer window, allowing Arsenal to swoop in and secure Rice’s signature.
Internal Pushback and Missed Opportunities
According to Talk of the Devils podcast hosts Andy Mitten and Laurie Whitwell from The Athletic, Rice was a long-term target for United, but internal disagreements hindered progress.
Mitten said:
“Senior people at United wanted Rice. Solskjær wanted him. Ten Hag wanted him.”
Whitwell added:
“There was some pushback internally, particularly among scouts, who debated whether he was good enough for United.”
This hesitation proved costly, as Arsenal capitalized on United’s indecision and signed Rice, making him their club-record transfer.
Rio Ferdinand’s Verdict
Former United defender Rio Ferdinand has been vocal about the club’s failure to secure Rice. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE, he explained why the midfielder would have been a perfect fit for Manchester United:
“Declan Rice was the player I would’ve 100% gone and got. You could argue there are midfielders with more ability, but only Jude Bellingham comes close to him in terms of being able to control a dressing room and earn respect immediately.”
Ferdinand praised Rice’s leadership qualities, calling him a player who could elevate the dressing room culture:
“Not only with performances and standards but with the attitude, likeability, and respect he would command straight away. That’s why I thought he was the most important signing for United, and they allowed Arsenal to get him.”
Rice’s Impact at Arsenal
Since joining Arsenal, Declan Rice has proven his worth, delivering commanding performances, including a standout display against Manchester United on Wednesday. His ability to dominate the midfield has made United’s decision not to pursue him even more glaring.
What Could Have Been
For United, the failure to act decisively on Rice has highlighted ongoing issues in transfer strategy and internal decision-making. As Arsenal enjoys the benefits of Rice’s presence, United fans are left to wonder how different their midfield—and their fortunes—might have been if the club had taken the plunge.
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