Declan Rice Achieves 300 Premier League Appearances as Fifth-Youngest Player
Declan Rice has reached a significant milestone by making his 300th appearance in the Premier League at just 27 years old. This achievement came during Arsenal’s impressive 4-0 victory against Leeds United. The match took place shortly after Rice celebrated his birthday, marking him as one of the youngest players in the league’s history to hit this mark.
Declan Rice’s Premier League Journey
Rice transferred to Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023 for a substantial fee of £105 million. Since joining the Gunners, he has participated in 96 out of 100 possible Premier League matches. In his debut season, Rice played in all 38 games, recording 37 starts and one substitute appearance. Last season, he missed just three matches, contributing with 33 starts and two substitute appearances.
Key Statistics from Declan Rice’s Premier League Career
- Total Premier League Appearances: 300
- Appearances for Arsenal: 96
- Appearances for West Ham: 204
- Total Goals: 25
- Total Assists: 28
- International Caps for England: 72
After playing 90 minutes at Elland Road, Rice has now been involved in all but one of Arsenal’s matches this season, with 22 starts and one substitute appearance to his name.
Ranking Among Youngest Players in Premier League History
With his 300 appearances logged at 27 years and 17 days old, Rice ranks as the fifth-youngest player to achieve this milestone. The top four players in this category include:
- Wayne Rooney: 26 years, 58 days
- James Milner: 26 years, 117 days
- Gareth Barry: 26 years, 247 days
- Raheem Sterling: 26 years, 348 days
Rice aspires to emulate the longevity of players like Milner and Barry, rather than following Rooney’s path. Barry holds the Premier League record for the most appearances at 653, with Milner close behind at 652.
Future Prospects
As Rice continues to develop at Arsenal, he aims to enhance his impressive statistics further. He hopes to contribute to the team’s success this season, with aspirations of adding at least one trophy to his collection.
As a pivotal player for both club and country, Rice remains focused on improving his game. His journey in the Premier League has only just begun.
