Arsenal continue to receive recognition for the strength of their squad, with Declan Rice is praised above some of the Premier League’s biggest stars. The England international, who has quickly become a leader at the Emirates, has been called better than Bukayo Saka and Alexander Isak by an EFL coach. It is a bold statement that underlines Rice’s growing reputation since making the switch from West Ham in 2023.
Wrexham coach places Rice above elite names
David Jones, first-team coach at Wrexham and a former Manchester United player, made the comments while appearing in a Goal USA video. Asked to choose between world-class footballers, Jones consistently picked the Arsenal midfielder over high-profile names. Rice was ranked ahead of Bukayo Saka, Mohamed Salah, Rodri, Alexander Isak, Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford, Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers, Alexis Mac Allister and Erling Haaland.
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The only player Jones placed above Rice was Manchester City legend Kevin De Bruyne, highlighting the respect Rice now commands across the game. Having won Arsenal’s Player of the Season award for 2024/25, the 26-year-old midfielder has firmly established himself as the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s side.
Since joining Arsenal in a record-breaking deal worth over £100 million, Rice has become a consistent performer in midfield. He combines defensive solidity with progressive passing, while also taking on a leadership role within the squad. His performances were crucial in helping Arsenal finish second in the Premier League and reach the semi-finals of the Champions League last season.
A rare off-day against Manchester United
Despite his consistency, Rice showed vulnerability in the opening league fixture against Manchester United. He struggled to influence the game and was substituted late on by Mikel Arteta, replaced by Mikel Merino to help close out the win. Gary Neville suggested it was one of Rice’s poorest showings since his move, but such performances remain the exception rather than the rule.
With Arsenal set to face Leeds United at the Emirates this weekend, Rice will be looking to respond immediately and reaffirm his importance. For Arteta, Rice remains one of the most influential figures in the squad, and for neutral observers like Jones, he is already among the very best in the Premier League.
