In a prestigious ceremony, Arsenal’s Declan Rice has been crowned Player of the Year at the London Football Awards, with Chelsea’s Cole Palmer receiving the accolade for Young Player of the Year.

While Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta narrowly missed out on the Manager of the Year award, it was Tottenham’s head coach Ange Postecoglou who claimed the honor. Additionally, it was a double triumph for Tottenham as Guglielmo Vicario was named Goalkeeper of the Year. The Chelsea contingent also celebrated as Lauren James was recognized as the WSL Player of the Year, and Aggie Beever-Jones received the Women’s Young Player of the Year award.

During the ceremony held at The Roundhouse in Camden, Arsenal’s marquee signing of the summer, Declan Rice, delivered an emotional speech upon receiving the top honor in men’s football. “Since I joined Arsenal, I’ve cherished every single moment,” Rice expressed. “Having spent 10 years at West Ham, the transition has been immense—new surroundings, a different manager, and new teammates. My approach was simply to be myself.”

“As time went on and the matches unfolded, I aimed to be confident and give my best for the team. So far, we’ve been performing admirably, and I hope we can conclude the season on a high note.”

Reflecting on his standout moments, Rice shared, “There have been numerous incredible moments thus far, but considering the magnitude of the occasion, I would have to say the goal against Manchester United was the pinnacle.”

“It marked my first goal for Arsenal. Alejandro Garnacho had one disallowed for offside just five minutes earlier, and then I managed to control the ball with my chin and find the back of the net. I was elated with that moment. It stands out as the best moment thus far.”

With the London Football Awards serving as a platform to honor football excellence in the capital, Rice, Palmer, and Postecoglou, among others, basked in the recognition of their exceptional contributions to the beautiful game.