Arsenal parted ways with a club record fee after a long-drawn transfer saga to sign Declan Rice in the summer, but so far he has been worth every penny.
Rice has excelled both at the base of midfield, helping solidify the best defensive unit in the Premier League, as well as in a more advanced role, reaching double figures in goal and assist contributions for the first time in his career.
Arsenal are in sensational form right now as they aim to challenge Manchester City and Liverpool for the Premier League title, and Rice has been a crucial part of Mikel Arteta’s side.
Jamie Carragher has now singled out Rice for praise, and claimed that if Arsenal do go on to secure their first title in 20 years, it will be as a direct result of the midfielder’s impact.
Jamie Carragher highlights importance of Declan Rice to Arsenal
Writing in The Telegraph, Carragher highlighted how Rice is more than just a defensive midfielder, and has been a transformative signing for Arsenal.
“It has taken no time to consider the £105 million Arsenal paid to West Ham in the same way as the £75 million Liverpool paid Southampton for Van Dijk. A bargain,” he claimed.
“Arsenal are five points worse off than this time last year, and yet they are a better side; more structurally sound and resilient. There is no expectation they will falter as they did at this point 12 months ago. Rice is the most significant reason for that, adding a steeliness to the team’s spine.”
Carragher then pointed out that Rice’s impact could be the difference between first and second place.
“Should Arsenal do it, the signing of Rice will be regarded as one of the most important in the club’s history – the final piece of the jigsaw turning a team of potential into champions,” he added.
“He is not a holding midfielder. He is a complete midfielder. When Arsenal travel to the Etihad in a fortnight’s time, they will feel they have the equal of City’s Rodri capable of dominating the key midfield battleground.”
Declan Rice has had Van Dijk-level impact at Arsenal
Carragher has highlighted how Virgil van Dijk was the missing piece for Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool, transforming them from a good side to a great one, and Rice may end up having a similar impact.
Not only have Rice’s performances been consistently good, but his leadership both on and off the pitch is apparent, and his ability to learn quickly has reportedly amazed Arsenal staff.
Arsenal were excellent for large parts of last season, but had plenty of chaotic games before they eventually collapsed in the title race. Rice has brought steel and calmness to the side, who are now scoring at a higher rate than ever, and all the ingredients are now there to potentially secure the title ahead of two top sides.
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