"For me, that type of midfielder, I think Rodri was the pinnacle when he won the Ballon d'Or. He hasn't quite hit those levels [since] because of injury. I think he's slightly different to Rice. I think Rice has a little bit more going forward. Rice can play as a No.6 at a really top-class level but I think you're taking a little bit away from what he can offer when you get him to stay there."
"I think Rice is a world-class player, I think Caicedo is a world-class player. Gravenberch, his levels last year, you have to say he had to be in the Team of the Year. On Caicedo, he added that he was well worth the big money CFC paid for him, saying: Anyone who costs over 100m, you're always going to have an extra focus on how well they do."
Declan Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham in summer 2023 and has delivered consistently high-level performances at the Emirates. Rice combines elite defensive No.6 ability with significant forward contributions, often operating as a No.8 in recent campaigns. Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d'Or for Manchester City but has not fully matched that peak since suffering injury setbacks. Rice's mobility, ball-carrying and attacking instincts differentiate him from Rodri and increase his all-around value. Moises Caicedo and Ryan Gravenberch also occupy world-class midfield status, with Caicedo justifying Chelsea's large transfer investment.
Read at www.caughtoffside.com
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