Overview
- Writing for Sportskeeda, Paul Merson says Declan Rice “affects the game more than any other midfielder” in the Premier League No. 8 role and rates him the most complete two-way option.
- Merson contrasts Rice with Enzo Fernández, arguing the Chelsea midfielder is strong in possession but cannot match Rice’s defensive work.
- He declines a direct Rice–Moisés Caicedo comparison, saying they play different roles, and labels Caicedo the best specialist holding midfielder, with Martín Zubimendi anchoring that role for Arsenal.
- In new comments relayed via HaytersTV, Mikel Arteta disputes that Rice’s position has changed, saying it has evolved as he becomes a “total player” who adds greater goal threat.
- Recent reporting notes Rice tallied 17 direct goal contributions in his first Arsenal season, 19 last term, and five already this campaign, supporting assessments of his increased impact; Merson also predicts Arsenal as title favourites and tips a 2–0 win over Crystal Palace.