Declan Rice Urged to Deliver Big-Match Moments for Arsenal

Declan Rice, Arsenal’s record-breaking midfielder, has been widely praised as the “most complete midfielder in Europe.” Since his high-profile £105 million transfer from West Ham in 2023, Rice has transformed Arsenal’s midfield, becoming a pivotal figure in Mikel Arteta’s quest for Premier League glory. However, former Liverpool star Danny Murphy believes Rice must now take another step to be compared with all-time Premier League greats like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

Declan Rice: Arsenal’s Engine and Europe’s Most Complete Midfielder

Declan Rice has quickly justified his hefty price tag, providing Arsenal with the defensive solidity and dynamism required at the highest level. His tactical awareness, physical presence, and technical skills have made him indispensable—whether breaking up opposition attacks or initiating Arsenal’s forward play. Rice’s delivery from set-pieces has added a new dimension to the Gunners’ attacking arsenal, contributing crucial assists throughout the campaign.

Danny Murphy, speaking to BestBettingSites.co.uk, was effusive in his praise: “Yes, Declan Rice is the most complete midfielder in Europe at the moment. He possesses incredible versatility, able to handle nearly every aspect of the game.” Murphy highlighted Rice’s powerful running, discipline, and ability to play with both feet, qualities that make him a nightmare for opposing midfielders.

Rice’s Path to Gerrard and Lampard Status

While Rice has dominated the Arsenal midfield, Murphy argues that he must now replicate the defining moments that cemented Gerrard and Lampard as Premier League legends. Both icons were known for producing game-changing contributions on the biggest stages—Gerrard’s unforgettable Champions League heroics for Liverpool and Lampard’s consistent knack for scoring in decisive matches for Chelsea.

“To be spoken of in the same breath as Gerrard or Lampard, Declan Rice needs to deliver the magic moments that win major finals,” Murphy insisted. “The greats are remembered for turning the tide in the most important games—scoring key goals, providing crucial assists, and dragging their teams to victory.”

Tactical Evolution: From Defensive Anchor to All-Action Midfielder

Rice’s versatility allows Arsenal to enjoy the benefits of two world-class midfielders in one. Initially established as a defensive midfielder, Rice’s role has evolved to include more attacking responsibility, especially with Martin Zubimendi offering additional support in midfield. This progression mirrors the transformation of Steven Gerrard, who developed from a holding midfielder into a dynamic box-to-box presence.

Murphy draws parallels between their careers: “When Gerrard started at Liverpool, he was the holding midfielder. Over time, he became the engine, the player who surged forward and scored decisive goals. Rice is on a similar path, growing into a more complete, attack-minded midfielder.”

Demand for More Goals from Open Play

Despite Rice’s influence, Murphy believes the next phase of his development requires a greater output in the final third. While Rice has contributed assists from set-pieces, he is yet to consistently deliver goals from open play—a hallmark of Lampard’s illustrious career.

“He knows he’s capable of more goals and assists,” Murphy said. “That’s an area for improvement, and with his technical ability, he should be scoring more from midfield. If Rice can add more goals to his game, he’ll be closer to the level of Lampard, who was lethal arriving late in the box.”

Can Declan Rice Become a Premier League Icon?

Declan Rice has all the attributes necessary to become an Arsenal and Premier League legend. His leadership, consistency, and tactical intelligence set him apart in European football. Yet, as Murphy notes, true greatness is defined by moments that live long in the memory—those match-winning contributions in finals, those goals that secure silverware.

With Arsenal in the hunt for major trophies and Rice at the heart of their midfield, he has the opportunity to create those lasting memories. For more news and analysis on Rice’s journey and Arsenal’s progress, visit for more news.

Opinion: Rice’s Time to Shine on the Biggest Stage

While Declan Rice’s evolution into Europe’s most complete midfielder is remarkable, the next step is clear: deliver decisive moments in major finals. If he can provide those iconic performances, he will not only join the ranks of Gerrard and Lampard but also etch his name in Arsenal history.