Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed his hope that midfielder Declan Rice can one day compete for football’s most prestigious individual honour, the Ballon d’Or. Speaking after Arsenal’s recent fixture, Arteta praised Rice’s consistency, leadership, and influence since the start of the season, highlighting how his performances have elevated the team’s overall level.
In comments shared by journalist Fabrizio Romano, Arteta said that a Ballon d’Or triumph for Rice would reflect Arsenal’s collective success. “I hope so! That would mean that we have won a lot, normally it is related to that,” the manager noted. His words underline a belief long associated with the award: individual recognition often follows team achievements at the highest level, including league titles and deep European runs.
Arteta continued by singling out Rice’s recent displays, emphasising the midfielder’s importance within the squad structure. “He was immense the other day. I think he’s been immense since the start of the season, and he’s an incredible and crucial player for us,” he added. Such high praise highlights the crucial role Rice has taken on since joining the club, becoming a dominant presence in midfield through his defensive intelligence, ball-carrying ability, and leadership qualities.
