Pires and Keane Endorse Rice’s Impact at Arsenal

The comparisons in football often carry significant weight, and Robert Pires, a pivotal figure in Arsenal’s historic unbeaten season of 2003-04, has recognized Declan Rice as a player worthy of standing alongside the legends of the Highbury era. As Mikel Arteta’s team strives to conclude a historic campaign and break a 22-year title drought, Pires’ endorsement serves as a powerful testament to Rice’s transformative impact since his arrival in north London.

Pires, who secured two league titles and two FA Cups under Arsène Wenger, understands the attributes necessary to clinch a title. In a discussion with Sky Sports, he noted that Rice embodies the same essence and significance as the captains and top scorers of yesteryear. “If you want to lift the trophy at the end of the season, you need a player like Declan Rice,” Pires affirmed. “You need a Patrick Vieira, a Thierry Henry, a Tony Adams… and Declan Rice belongs in that same circle.”

Since his £105 million transfer from West Ham in the summer of 2023, Rice has been a mainstay for Arteta, swiftly dispelling any concerns regarding his hefty price tag. He was honored as the club’s Player of the Season for 2024-25 and continues to be the heartbeat of the team this term. Pires draws a clear parallel: just as Vieira provided strength and leadership for the Invincibles, Rice lays the groundwork for the current generation to thrive.

Pires’ remarks come during a time of heightened optimism at the Emirates Stadium. He remarked that the atmosphere surrounding the club has transformed significantly compared to the barren years following the move from Highbury. “I’m always positive. I always feel good energy when I return to Arsenal,” he added.

Rice’s impact has not gone unnoticed, as former Manchester United captain Roy Keane, typically known for his critical stance, has also praised the England international’s development. Ahead of Arsenal’s recent 0-0 draw with Liverpool, which extended their lead at the top of the table, Keane asserted that Rice has ascended to a world-class level.

“He seems like a humble guy but possesses the confidence necessary for a big club,” Keane stated on Sky Sports. “His career trajectory shows that he performed exceptionally at West Ham, and now at Arsenal, he is surrounded by superior talent.”

Keane further emphasized the tactical evolution in Rice’s play under Arteta. No longer merely a defensive shield, he has evolved into a formidable box-to-box presence. “His role has changed; he’s pushing forward more often. We’ve always believed he had the potential to score due to his excellent technique and intelligence on the pitch. Is he now one of the top players globally? I believe he is, considering his performances at Arsenal and for England.”

The acclaim for Rice comes at a crucial juncture in a title race that Arsenal currently dominates. Despite a recent goalless draw against title rivals Liverpool, results elsewhere allowed the Gunners to extend their lead over the chasing pack to six points.

The club is eager to overcome the disappointments of past near-misses and replicate the success of the 2003-04 squad. While the current team may not remain unbeaten, the desire to secure the trophy is unmistakable. The squad’s depth was evident in their recent FA Cup victory over Portsmouth, where they triumphed 4-1, with Gabriel Martinelli showcasing his talent by netting his first senior hat-trick.

However, Rice and his teammates will face a challenging schedule that will rigorously test their title credentials. The “tricky end to January” highlighted in reports begins with a high-stakes Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against London rivals Chelsea on Wednesday.