Wayne Rooney, observing from the stands at Goodison Park, witnessed a performance that solidified his already high opinion of Declan Rice. Arsenal’s recent victory over Everton wasn’t just another three points; it was a showcase of Rice’s burgeoning dominance, a display that left Rooney genuinely impressed.
Rooney didn’t hesitate to label Rice “incredible,” stating he was unequivocally the best player on the pitch. It wasn’t simply about flashy plays or spectacular goals, but a subtle mastery of the midfield – a quiet authority that dictated the flow of the game. He saw a player operating on a different level, a force quietly orchestrating Arsenal’s success.
The former Manchester United star went further, suggesting Rice is currently “underrated” because so much of his impact happens away from the highlight reel. His intelligent positioning, precise passing, and tireless work rate often go unnoticed by the casual observer, yet are absolutely vital to Arsenal’s structure.
Rooney’s admiration extends beyond the present, envisioning Rice as the future captain of England. He sees a natural leader, someone with the drive, personality, and respect to seamlessly step into the role when Harry Kane eventually moves on. For Rooney, Rice isn’t just a great player; he’s irreplaceable for the national team.
The analysis didn’t stop with Rice. Rooney also turned his attention to Arsenal’s summer signing, Viktor Gyokeres. While the forward’s goal tally hasn’t immediately exploded, Rooney recognizes a crucial, often unseen, contribution to Arteta’s system.
Gyokeres’ value lies in his ability to occupy defenders, creating space for Arsenal’s more dynamic attacking players. He consistently draws the attention of opposing center-backs, opening up passing lanes and opportunities for those around him. It’s a selfless role, one that doesn’t always translate to goals, but is undeniably impactful.
Rooney acknowledges Gyokeres has room for improvement, and should be scoring more given his position within the team. However, he firmly believes that if Arsenal are to challenge for the Premier League title, Gyokeres will play a significant, albeit understated, role in their success. His contributions, though subtle, are undeniably valuable.
Arsenal now shifts its focus to the Carabao Cup, with a challenging match against Crystal Palace looming. The team’s ambition is clear, and the performances of players like Rice and Gyokeres will be pivotal as they navigate a demanding schedule and pursue silverware on multiple fronts.
