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Nigerian rapper Odumodublvck has claimed that he played a significant role in popularising Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice among Nigerians through his music.
The rapper made the claim during a recent interview session, where he spoke about the influence of his music on the footballer’s popularity in Nigeria.
According to Odumodublvck, many Nigerians were not familiar with Rice before he released a song referencing the England international.
He said his musical reference to the midfielder helped draw attention to him, adding that Rice subsequently became widely recognised before Arsenal signed him.
“I introduced Declan Rice to Nigerians. Before I sang about him, nobody knew about him. It was after I sang about him that he blew up, and Arsenal discovered and signed him,” the rapper said.
Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023 in a deal reportedly worth an initial £100 million, with a further £5 million in potential add-ons.
The midfielder had established himself as one of the Premier League’s prominent players during his time at West Ham, where he captained the club and helped them win the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2023.
His performances attracted interest from several top European clubs before Arsenal secured his signature.
Since arriving at the Emirates Stadium, Rice has become an important member of Mikel Arteta’s squad, contributing to the club’s midfield with his defensive qualities, passing ability and attacking contributions.
Odumodublvck, meanwhile, has frequently incorporated football references into his music, reflecting the relationship between Nigerian entertainment and the country’s passion for football.
