Declan Rice: 'The best midfielder in the world,' according to David Moyes.
Following his outstanding performance that helped Arsenal defeat Everton, Declan Rice was called 'the best midfielder in the world' by his former manager David Moyes. The statistics prove this praise to be true.
Acknowledgment from a former teacher
When David Moyes, who mentored Declan Rice at West Ham, exclaimed that his former pupil "is probably the best midfielder in the world," it wasn't just a polite compliment. Having witnessed Rice's performances for Arsenal at Goodison Park, the veteran manager was completely convinced.
"He's probably the best midfielder in the world in some aspects," manager Moyes said after the match. He also acknowledged Mikel Arteta's contribution to Rice's development: "Mikel has transformed him into a truly top-class player."
Moyes' praise shows his utmost respect for Rice's remarkable development. He is no longer just a defensive midfielder like he was at West Ham, but has become a perfect "heart" that drives Arsenal's style of play.
An impenetrable steel wall.
If David Moyes' words were emotional, the statistics are the most convincing evidence. In a match where Arsenal needed to protect their fragile lead after Leandro Trossard's goal, Declan Rice transformed into an impenetrable wall in front of the defense.
Rice's defensive statistics over the 90 minutes are clear evidence of this:
- 0 times being dribbled past:No Everton player has been able to get past Rice in one-on-one situations.
- 10 ball recoveries:Demonstrates excellent game reading ability and presence in key areas.
- 100% win rate in aerial duels:Rice won all three aerial duels, neutralizing the opponent's long-ball tactics.
- 19 defensive contributions:This includes 3 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 4 clearances.
What's amazing is that Rice accomplished all of that without making a single mistake. He won the ball back with intelligence and class, not just brute strength.
Conductor coordinates the playing style.
More than just a "ball-winning machine," Rice was also Arsenal's main ball-distribution hub. With 114 touches (the most in the match) and 87 accurate passes (90% accuracy), the English midfielder dictated the tempo of the game as desired by manager Mikel Arteta.
Despite playing in the deepest midfield position, Rice didn't pass the ball passively. He made 10 passes into the final third of the opponent's field, playing a crucial role in transitioning from defense to attack.
At the present time, Declan Rice is the most complete version of himself: a spiritual leader, an impenetrable defensive anchor, and a playmaker. It's difficult to find a more complete central midfielder than him on the world football map.
