Former England striker Robbie Fowler has explained why Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice is not yet ready to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or award. Rice led Arsenal to their first Premier League title in 22 years and also reached the UEFA Champions League final, making him one of the favorites for the prestigious individual honor.
Fowler Dismisses Rice's Ballon d'Or Charge
Fowler, who played for Liverpool and England, downplayed comparisons between Rice and Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard. He stated that while Rice has been exceptional for Arsenal, he still needs to elevate his game to be considered among the Ballon d'Or contenders.
"I think when we talk about Declan Rice and how good he is, you compare him to the likes of Stevie G. If I'm being honest, I don't think he's at Steven's level. That's not me being all Liverpool," Fowler told Goal.
Fowler acknowledged that Rice has improved since moving to Arsenal but insisted he must reach another level to be in the Ballon d'Or conversation. "He's been great for Arsenal, and he's obviously gone up a notch. But I think he needs to go up another notch. It does sound like I'm having a little bit of a go, but I'm not. I think Declan Rice is a fantastic player, but I don't think he's on the realms of the Ballon d'Or list just yet," Fowler added.
Rice Speaks on Ballon d'Or Chances
Earlier this year, Rice was asked about his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or. He admitted that being mentioned in such discussions is a sign of his high-level performances. "Look, they're the right conversations to be in. Arsenal fans really appreciate what I'm doing for them, and it was West Ham fans before that. When you're being compared to the best players in the world, it's nice, so long may that continue. It shows you're playing well, and you want to play at the highest level," Rice said, as quoted by ESPN.
Piers Morgan Backs Rice for Ballon d'Or
Despite Fowler's comments, British broadcaster and Arsenal fan Piers Morgan has backed Rice to win the 2026 Ballon d'Or, calling him the best player in Europe during the 2025/26 season. Morgan questioned why Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes won the Premier League Player of the Season award over Rice.
Rice's chances could also receive a significant boost if England wins the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The midfielder's performances have drawn comparisons to some of England's greatest midfielders, but Fowler believes Rice still has work to do before reaching that elite level.
