Arsenal midfielder, Declan Rice, has expressed deep sadness after seeing his former club West Ham United relegated on the final day of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Despite lifting the league title with Arsenal, Rice maintained a strong emotional bond with the Hammers, describing them as a club that still holds huge significance in his career.
Rice’s emotional message to West Ham
The 27-year-old, who left West Ham in 2023 for a club-record transfer fee, has continued to openly express affection for the East London side.
Taking to Instagram, Rice reacted to the club’s relegation with a heartfelt message to supporters, admitting he was devastated by the outcome.
“I’m absolutely gutted to see West Ham relegated,” he said.
“A club that really does mean so much to me. As I said before, I wouldn’t be where I am today without everything the club has done for me.
“With that being said, I have no doubt they will be back where they belong in the Premier League in no time. I will be supporting always.”
West Ham’s relegation season
West Ham United were relegated from the Premier League to the Championship on May 24, 2026, ending a 14-year stay in the top flight.
Even a 3-0 final-day win over Leeds United was not enough to secure survival, as results elsewhere confirmed an 18th-place finish alongside Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The club ended the campaign with 39 points under manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who was appointed in September after replacing Graham Potter with the team already struggling near the bottom.
Although Nuno initially stabilised performances and lifted the side off last place, inconsistency persisted. A poor run between November and January yielded just four points from a possible 30, severely damaging their survival hopes.
Frequent managerial changes, combined with inconsistent transfer decisions following Rice’s departure, disrupted squad balance and made it difficult to establish a stable playing identity.
Ultimately, a lack of pace, depth, and tactical continuity left the team unable to adapt across the season.
