As the 2025/26 Premier League season kicks into gear, Arsenal fans are buzzing with anticipation, and one player stands out as the one to watch: Declan Rice. The dynamic midfielder, who has already cemented his place as a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s squad, is poised to take his game to new heights this season. However, despite his stellar performances, many believe Rice was unjustly overlooked for the PFA Men’s Players’ Player of the Year award, which was awarded to Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah on August 19, 2025.
### Declan Rice: Arsenal’s Engine and the Season’s One to Watch
Since his £105 million move to Arsenal in 2023, Declan Rice has proven worth every penny, transforming the Gunners’ midfield with his blend of tenacity, vision, and leadership. Last season, Rice was a standout in Arsenal’s campaign, which saw them finish as runners-up for the third consecutive year, amassing 89 points and boasting the league’s best defensive record, conceding just 29 goals. Rice played every minute of the Premier League season, contributing nine goals and 10 assists across all competitions, a career-high that showcased his evolution into a complete midfielder.
This season, Rice is expected to elevate his game even further. His ability to break up opposition plays, deliver pinpoint set-piece passes, and surge forward with attacking intent makes him a unique asset. Arsenal’s tactical setup under Arteta relies heavily on Rice’s versatility, whether he’s anchoring the midfield or driving forward to create chances. His leadership, at just 26, is also vital, with many tipping him to take on the captain’s armband in the future. “He’s the heartbeat of this team,” Arteta said in a recent interview. “His energy and quality set the tone for us.”
Fans and analysts alike are eager to see Rice dominate in 2025/26, particularly as Arsenal aim to finally dethrone Manchester City. With new signings integrating and a settled defensive unit behind him, Rice has the platform to shine as one of the Premier League’s elite. His performances in big matches—like his commanding display in Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Manchester United earlier this season—suggest he’s ready to lead the Gunners to glory.
### The PFA Award Snub: Why Rice Should Have Won
Despite his undeniable impact, Rice was overlooked for the 2024/25 PFA Men’s Players’ Player of the Year award, which went to Mohamed Salah. Salah’s credentials are unquestionable—29 goals and 18 assists powered Liverpool to the Premier League title, earning him a record third PFA award. However, many argue that Rice’s all-around contribution to Arsenal’s near-title-winning campaign deserved greater recognition.
Rice was one of six nominees for the award, alongside Salah, Alexis Mac Allister, Bruno Fernandes, Alexander Isak, and Cole Palmer. While Salah’s goal contributions were staggering, Rice’s influence was arguably more comprehensive. He was the linchpin in a midfield that dictated Arsenal’s high-pressing, possession-based style, while also stepping up offensively with crucial goals and assists. His set-piece delivery, a new string to his bow, was instrumental in Arsenal’s league-leading defensive record, with centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel often benefiting from his pinpoint crosses.
The PFA Team of the Year selections underscored Arsenal’s dominance, with Rice joined by teammates Saliba and Gabriel, as well as Liverpool’s Salah, Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alexis Mac Allister. Yet, Rice’s absence from the top individual prize felt like a missed opportunity to acknowledge a player who embodied consistency and impact across all facets of the game. “Declan was unbelievable last season,” said former Arsenal striker Ian Wright. “He’s not just a defensive midfielder anymore—he’s a game-changer. To me, he was the complete package.”
### Looking Ahead: Rice’s Time to Shine
While the PFA award may have eluded him, Rice’s focus remains on Arsenal’s ambitions. With the Gunners tipped as serious title contenders, his role will be pivotal in their quest to end a 22-year wait for the Premier League crown. His ability to perform in high-stakes moments, combined with his relentless work rate, makes him the player to watch this season.
As Arsenal prepare for a grueling campaign, including Champions League challenges, Rice’s durability—he played every minute of the 2023/24 Premier League season—will be crucial. His growing influence off the pitch, mentoring younger players like Ethan Nwaneri, further cements his status as a leader.
For Arsenal fans, the PFA snub is a minor setback in what promises to be a defining season for Declan Rice. At 26, he’s entering his prime, and his performances suggest he’s ready to prove the doubters wrong. If he continues his trajectory, the accolades will surely follow—but for now, he’s the player every Arsenal supporter will be watching, and the one opponents will fear most.
