Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has addressed growing speculation linking him with a potential Ballon d’Or nomination, as the Gunners continue their relentless charge at the top of the Premier League table.
Mikel Arteta’s side are firmly in control of the title race, holding a five-point advantage over both Manchester City and Aston Villa as they chase a first league crown in 22 years.
Rice opens up on Ballon d’Or discussion
Rice has been enjoying arguably the finest season of his career, emerging as one of the Premier League’s most influential midfielders. The England international has contributed four goals and three assists in 19 league appearances, playing a pivotal role in Arsenal’s dominance.
Speaking about the recent Ballon d’Or conversations, Rice remained grounded but admitted the recognition is encouraging.
“I’m just Dec from Kingston, aren’t I,” he said.
“But look, they’re the right conversations to be in. Arsenal fans really appreciate what I’m doing right now, and it was the same with West Ham before that — they were singing my praises too.
“When you’re being mentioned alongside the best players in the world, it’s a nice feeling. It shows you’re performing well and competing at the highest level, and that’s exactly where you want to be.”
While individual accolades are not his focus, Rice’s performances have naturally placed him among the standout players in Europe this season.
What Rice would need to win football’s biggest individual prize
Realistically, Rice’s chances of lifting the Ballon d’Or would depend heavily on team success. Arsenal winning both the Premier League and the Champions League would significantly boost his prospects, while international success could further strengthen his case.
With a World Cup on the horizon in the summer, a deep run — or even victory — with England would place Rice firmly in the conversation, provided he maintains his current level of form.
Arsenal fully focused on ending title drought
Turning attention back to Arsenal’s title ambitions, Rice made it clear that the squad are determined to seize their opportunity and end a two-decade wait for domestic glory.
“A lot of the boys have spoken openly about it. You only get one career, so why not give it absolutely everything,” he explained.
“We’re in this position with 18 games left, so we’ve just got to keep pushing, keep playing well and try to win every game we can. That’s all we can control.
“One day we’ll look back on this period — it sounds cliché — but you’ll ask yourself if you could’ve given more. This is the time to give it everything, because we’re never getting this moment back.”
With confidence, momentum, and belief surging through the squad, Rice’s leadership and consistency could prove decisive as Arsenal look to turn promise into silverware.
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