Followers are asking whether or not Declan Rice can win the Ballon d’Or if Arsenal win the Champions League, and Softfootball believes it’s attainable.
Rice has been completely incredible all through the 2025/26 season. His power, ball restoration, management, and midfield dominance have been key to Arsenal’s success each domestically and in Europe.
Nevertheless, there’s nonetheless a giant debate. When Rodri received the Ballon d’Or in 2024, his significance to Manchester Metropolis was plain. At any time when Rodri was absent, Metropolis struggled badly. He managed matches, dictated tempo, and gave steadiness to your entire group.
Now the query turns into, is Rice actually Arsenal’s greatest participant this season?
Followers shouldn’t overlook Gabriel Magalhães. His defensive contribution to this Arsenal aspect has been massively underrated. Rice might shine in midfield by serving to the assault and profitable the ball, however when Arsenal are underneath stress, Gabriel is commonly the participant holding every little thing collectively on the again.
Defenders are not often appreciated the best way they need to be, regardless of the massive work they do. Their significance is normally felt most when they’re unavailable. An analogous instance was seen at Chelsea when Levi Colwill was injured and the group struggled defensively.
For Softfootball, Gabriel Magalhães has arguably been Arsenal’s most essential participant this season, even when Rice receives extra consideration due to his function in midfield.
