Arsenal stars Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice were in the starting XI as England booked their place in the Euro 2024 final with a dramatic 2-1 victory over the Netherlands.
Rice has been a crucial figure for Arsenal and England this season, both at the base of midfield as well as further forward.
After some struggle, Rice found his best form alongside Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo in the middle of the park in the victory over Switzerland, but despite England’s 2-1 victory over The Netherlands, Rice endured a difficult night on an individual level, as he gave away the ball in the build-up to the opening goal from Xavi Simons.
Rice looked far from his usual self at times, with Ronald Koeman’s side pressing high on him to try and force mistakes, and Arsenal fans have expressed their concern over him.
Arsenal fans express concern over Declan Rice after difficult display in England victory vs The Netherlands
Taking to X, some Arsenal fans admitted that Rice was far from his best, and this is something of a concern heading into the final, as some believe that he is not being deployed in his best midfield role.
“Not even gonna pretend here, Rice has been pretty bad,” one Arsenal fan posted.
“Rice is a phenomenal player but Jesus Christ please play the simple pass,” another added.
“Thank God that this Rice performance comes for England and not in Arsenal.”
However, some fans pointed out that Rice’s struggles came as a result of imbalance in the England side, which affected the Arsenal star against Slovakia.
“We all know Rice isn’t a 6 but the main issue is England’s left side is dead. There’s no outlet from the left & that’s why the team is unbalanced,” one fan posted.
“Rice is a box-to-box player, let him finally attack and stop that 6 gimmick where he is supposed to play from deep. he isn‘t a 6,” another fan pointed out.
“Outside of the mistake rice has been good. But you can’t be making that mistake in that area of the pitch,” a fan claimed.
Can Declan Rice thrive at the base of midfield for England?
Rice was excellent in the victory over Switzerland, and all signs pointed towards England finding balance in midfield. However, this was one of Rice’s most difficult displays.
The 25-year-old was dispossessed near his own box which led to the opening goal from Simons, and this was a poor moment from a player who has otherwise been reliable all season.
He grew into the game, but The Netherlands had clearly targeted him as he was dispossessed on several occasions, but given his pedigree, he will not be concerned ahead of the final against Spain, even if fans are.
Rice will have a tough job on his hands as he faces a midfield battle against Manchester City star Rodri, and if Spain dominate possession, he will be tasked with disrupting their magnificent midfield trio which includes a long-term Mikel Arteta target in Dani Olmo.
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