British broadcaster and Arsenal fan Piers Morgan has publicly backed midfielder Declan Rice to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or award, as well as the PFA Player of the Year honor. Rice has been instrumental in Arsenal's push for both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League titles this season.
Arsenal on the Verge of Historic Double
Arsenal are just four matches away from completing a historic double: their first Champions League title and their first English league crown in 22 years. The Gunners will face West Ham, Burnley, and Crystal Palace in their final three league games before a high-profile Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.
Morgan's Bold Claim
Declan Rice is among the top favorites for the PFA Player of the Year award in England, with Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes as his main rival. Fernandes has been closing in on the Premier League assist record and has revitalized United's season.
Responding to social media claims that Fernandes should win the PFA award, Morgan stated that Rice deserves not only that honor but also the Ballon d'Or. He wrote on X: "The idea that Bruno Fernandes wins PFA Player of the Year over @_DeclanRice is preposterous. Rice should win the Ballon d'Or too, he's been the best player in Europe."
The post sparked reactions, especially from Manchester United fans who argued for Fernandes. One user commented: "This man thinks fellow professionals watch Bruno and Rice and think Rice has been the better player because he has played more games?" Another wrote: "Obviously haven't watched many Man U games then? Both have had decent seasons, but Bruno has influenced far more games and had more assists." A third added: "The arrogance of this is staggering, Piers. He has barely scored a goal and hardly any assists all season?! More worthy of the Ballon d'Or than: Kane? Olise? Diaz? Vitinha? Neves? Dembele? Kvaratskhelia? Don't think so, not even close."
Rice's Emotional Reaction After UCL Final Berth
Declan Rice expressed his emotions after helping Arsenal reach the Champions League final, dedicating the achievement to the fans. He said: "This era of Arsenal fans, I know people who have been there from the start have had a lot of ups and downs, but I'm sure this is really up there for them. So, I'm happy we've done it for the club and for this set of players and our manager because everyone deserves it, so, so happy."
Updated 2026 Ballon d'Or Rankings
With Arsenal and PSG set to face off in the final, current Ballon d'Or holder Ousmane Dembele is in a strong position to retain his award. The final will likely influence the final voting for the 2026 Ballon d'Or.
