19 hours ago
3 ARTICLE AD
Sol Campbell believes Declan Rice is the best midfielder in the world right now.
The Arsenal star has established himself among the leading players in his position since joining the Gunners in a £100million move in 2023, having become indispensable for both club and country.
6
Already a mainstay at the heart of England's midfield in recent years, Rice's time in north London has seen him deliver his trademark gut-busting runs and aggression under the spotlight.
In his debut season at the Emirates, the 26-year-old was named in the PFA Team of the Year as Mikel Arteta's side narrowly missed out on the Premier League title.
Signed as a holding midfielder, Rice has also showcased his attacking capabilities, scoring 12 goals and providing 17 assists since his arrival.
And while his impact at Arsenal undoubtedly places him among the world's best in his position, club legend Campbell has gone one further in his assessment of the Englishman.
In an interview with talkSPORT on behalf of bet365, which is hosting a UEFA Champions League ticket giveaway, the two-time Premier League winner was asked who he thinks is the best player in each position.
When the topic switched to central midfielders, he replied: “Do you know who I feel is doing really well and solid?
"Before, you would say Rodri [is the best], but he's been injured for a bit. I'd say Declan Rice has been really solid.”
Campbell's suggestion of Rice as the leading midfielder in the world may come as a surprise given some of his rivals for this title.
Rodri won the Ballon d'Or and is a big reason for Manchester City's struggles, but his long-term absence was acknowledged as a reason for ruling him out of contention. Still, there are plenty of other world-class candidates Campbell could have chosen, which reiterates how solid Rice has been.
Jude Bellingham, who has proven himself a player for the big occasion, is one of the best players in a star-studded Real Madrid squad.
6
6
6
After a stunning debut season in the Spanish capital which saw him win both LaLiga and the Champions League in 2024, the 21-year-old has continued to impress from a less attacking role this term.
With 13 goals and 11 assists in the current campaign, Bellingham comfortably leads Rice in this category, who has netted five times, assisting a further eight.
Given the Madrid star still plays in a more advanced position than his compatriot, it is possible Campbell considers him an attacking midfielder instead.
Barcelona star Pedri has won many admirers, too.
Despite missing all of Spain's Euro 2024 triumph through injury, the young midfielder has bounced back this season to emerge as an outside contender for the Ballon d'Or.
The 22-year-old has missed one game all campaign with Barca, with his fine displays giving his side a shot at LaLiga and European glory.
6
6
Honourable mentions also goes to Federico Valverde, Alexis Mac Allister and Nico Barella.
However, it wasn't just Campbell's choice of the world's current leading midfielders which may spark some debate.
When asked for his choice of the greatest player to ever play in the position, the former defender looked past Zinedine Zidane, Andrea Pirlo and Xavi.
Jason Cundy claims injuries have cost Arsenal the Premier League as Saka makes dream return
That honour belonged to Gazza, the former Tottenham and England star - but on one condition.
“Best central midfielder of all time? I would say [Paul] Gascoigne. If he hadn't been injured.”
Gascoigne burst onto the scene at Newcastle in the mid 1980s and, after turning down a move to Manchester United, joined Tottenham in 1988.
He won the hearts of England fans for his role at the 1990 World Cup but then injury problems struck. He was stretchered off during Spurs' 1991 FA Cup win and then spent much of his time at Lazio struggling with injury before returning to Britain to join Rangers in 1995.
But his class on the ball will always be remembered fondly. He was aggressive but had flair with an eye for a pass. He was a hero to Steven Gerrard and Gary Lineker described him as the most naturally gifted technical footballer he played with.
Watch the full interview with Sol Campbell on talkSPORT's YouTube channel
