Jamie Carragher has declared Declan Rice the best midfielder in the Premier League after the Arsenal star produced a commanding display in the 1-0 victory over Liverpool at Anfield.
Rice was named Player of the Match as Arsenal secured their first league win at Liverpool in 14 years and moved to the top of the Premier League. He also supplied the decisive assist, delivering the ball for Kai Havertz to score in the 16th minute.
Jamie Carragher hails Declan Rice as the Premier League’s best midfielder
Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher said there was now little room for debate over Rice’s standing among the division’s midfielders.
“He’s the best midfield player in the Premier League by a long way. It’s not even a debate,” he said.
The former Liverpool defender also compared Rice with Chelsea midfielder Moisés Caicedo, suggesting that while the discussion had been closer last season, the Arsenal player had since established a clear advantage.
“He’s a world-class midfield player. There’s absolutely no doubt about it. One of the best midfield players Arsenal have ever had,” Carragher added.
He also placed the 27-year-old in the conversation with Arsenal greats Patrick Vieira and Liam Brady, although Rice is continuing to build a legacy of his own at the club.
Rice’s influence continues to grow for Arsenal
The performance at Anfield underlined the breadth of Rice’s contribution. He had more touches than any other Arsenal player, created the winning goal and repeatedly helped shield the defence as Liverpool applied pressure.
Rice has increasingly combined defensive work with ball-carrying, pressing, duels and a growing influence in the final third. That development has added another dimension to his game.
Arsenal needed control and discipline as much as attacking invention against Liverpool, and Rice provided both. His assist settled the contest, while his work without the ball was central to Liverpool failing to register a shot on target despite sustained pressure.
Comparisons with Vieira will remain demanding given the Frenchman’s achievements at Arsenal, but Carragher believes Rice already merits consideration among the club’s greatest midfielders. Continued decisive performances in the pursuit of major trophies would strengthen that case further.
