English media have tipped Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as a strong contender for the 2026 Ballon d'Or, following a remarkable season that saw him help the Gunners win their first Premier League title in 22 years and reach the UEFA Champions League final.
Rice's Impact at Club and International Level
Rice, who joined Arsenal from West Ham United in a £105 million deal, was instrumental in the club's domestic triumph. He also played a key role in Arsenal's run to the Champions League final, earning three man-of-the-match awards in the competition, as noted by UEFA.
On the international stage, Rice was part of the England squad that finished third at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, their best result since winning the tournament in 1966.
BBC Sport London Highlights Rice's Stats
BBC Sport London recently published Rice's statistics since his move to Arsenal, captioning the post with the words 'for the records.' The timing of the post, amid the ongoing discourse about Ballon d'Or contenders, was interpreted by many as a subtle reminder of the midfielder's consistent performances.
Pundits Predict Top-Ten Finish
While Rice is not currently the leading candidate for the award, analysts and pundits believe he has a strong chance of finishing inside the top ten when votes are counted later this year. His combination of domestic glory, continental progress, and international success across a single calendar year places him among a select group of players who have influenced matches at every level.
Piers Morgan's Earlier Prediction
Legit.ng previously reported that British broadcaster and Arsenal fan Piers Morgan tipped Rice to win the Ballon d'Or, citing his impressive season for Arsenal. However, Rice's chances have since diminished following the World Cup, according to Morgan.
