Merson: Rice is the best number 8, surpassing Enzo Fernandez
Before the Arsenal - Crystal Palace match, Merson affirmed that Rice is the best number 8, better than Enzo Fernandez in defense; he predicted Arsenal to win 2-0, keeping the top spot.
Paul Merson highlighted before Arsenal's match against Crystal Palace when he affirmed that Declan Rice is the best number 8 midfielder in the Premier League at the moment, surpassing Enzo Fernandez in terms of defense. He predicted Arsenal to win 2-0, considering this a step to keep the top of the table and affirm their championship ambitions.
Rice and the number 8 mark according to Paul Merson
Merson highlighted Rice’s all-round influence in both attack and defence: “Rice affects the game more than any other No. 8 in the Premier League. In terms of attacking and defending, I don’t see anyone surpassing him.”
According to the former player, Rice is the perfect midfielder for Arsenal's current style of play, helping the team control the tempo, create pressure and ensure balance between the two phases.
Compare with Enzo Fernandez
When asked about Enzo Fernandez, Merson commented: “Enzo Fernandez is good on the ball but can’t do what Rice does defensively.” This puts Rice in a superior position in the number 8 role due to his ability to contribute when the team doesn’t have the ball.
Arsenal face challenge from Crystal Palace
Arsenal currently lead the Premier League in many important indicators, from solid defense to ability to score from set pieces. The match against Crystal Palace is therefore considered a measure for the North London team to consolidate their position at the top of the table and maintain the championship race.
Crystal Palace have been in good form and have posed a number of challenges to Arsenal. However, Merson believes in the home team's efficiency: "Arsenal are simply too efficient and have so many quality players. I would be very surprised if they don't win the title."
Defensive strength and dead balls
Recent statistics back Arsenal up: they have conceded the fewest goals and are top in defensive efficiency in recent games, while set pieces continue to be a key source of goals.
Predictions and Impact on the Race
Merson predicts a 2-0 win for Arsenal against Crystal Palace. A win in this scenario would not only keep the score up but would also reinforce the belief in a structure based on solid defence and dead ball efficiency. More importantly, it would reinforce the message: Rice is the fulcrum of midfield in the title race.
Notable Statistics and Facts
- Merson's assessment: Rice influences the game more than any other number 8 midfielder in the Premier League.
- Direct comparison: Enzo Fernandez is praised when on the ball, but loses out to Rice in defense.
- Arsenal: Teams that have conceded the fewest goals; leading in defensive performance over recent matches.
- Weapons: Scoring from set pieces is a standout strength.
- Merson's prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Crystal Palace.
| Index | Note |
|---|---|
| Defense | Be in the group of teams that conceded the fewest goals |
| Dead ball | Ability to score from set pieces |
| Personal opinion | “Rice is the best number 8 right now” — Paul Merson |
| Score prediction | Arsenal 2-0 Crystal Palace (Merson) |
The game against Crystal Palace therefore becomes the next test for Arsenal's playing structure and for Rice himself — a player expected to maintain a high tempo in midfield and maintain his advantage in the standings.
