Ask many die-hard Arsenal fans for their take on who is the best midfielder in the world, and the response will be almost universally the same: Declan Rice. There have even been calls for the Englishman to win the Ballon d'Or after propelling the Gunners to a first league title in 22 years, as well as the Champions League final. The rest of the world, though, remains less convinced.
The 2025-26 European season is almost in the books. Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain will face off in Saturday's Champions League final after both secured league titles in England and France, respectively, while there was joy for Bayern Munich in Germany and Inter in Italy as both won domestic doubles. Rounding out the 'Big Five' leagues, Barcelona successfully defended their crown in La Liga as Real Madrid tailed off in chaotic circumstances.
Declan Rice has revealed how watching Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard shaped his transformation into the "lighthouse" of Arsenal's midfield. As the Gunners prepare for a historic Champions League final showdown against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, the England international is aiming to follow in the footsteps of the greats by leading his side to European glory.
Paris Saint-Germain faced a major crisis of confidence on the transfer front following the departures of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe and Neymar. According to recent reports, both Harry Kane and Michael Olise turned down moves to the Parc des Princes in favour of Bayern Munich, fearing the French giants were on a downward trajectory.
Declan Rice has opened up on his evolution into a "big-game player" as Arsenal prepare for a historic Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. Having already secured the Premier League title, the England midfielder is now focused on completing a legendary double in Budapest.
