Wayne Rooney hails ‘absolutely incredible’ Declan Rice as underrated gem and future England Captain in recent Arsenal news. Arsenal’s blistering title charge is crowning on top the Premier League table after a commanding 2-0 victory over Everton. However, former Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney has spotlighted a quiet builder of their success.
🗣️Wayne Rooney reflecting on Declan Rice’s performance in the #Arsenal win over Everton at the weekend: “I have to say Declan Rice is incredible, it was a pleasure to watch. He was by far the best player on the pitch.
“For me, he’s the future captain of England. He’s the one… pic.twitter.com/YyKMMvgs3x
— Arsenal News Channel (@Arsenalnewschan) December 22, 2025
On The Overlap podcast, Wayne Rooney praised Declan Rice as “absolutely incredible”. He insisted the midfielder is criminally underrated despite his key role in Mikel Arteta‘s machine in recent Arsenal news. With the Gunners two points clear, Rice’s brilliance could be the difference in ending a 21-year drought.
Rooney’s Glowing Endorsement
Rooney, reflecting on Rice’s masterclass against Everton, didn’t hold back: “I have to say Declan Rice is incredible. It was a pleasure watching. He was all over the pitch.” The ex-England skipper knows a thing or two about midfield maestros. Moreover, he called Rice “underrated” for his tireless energy and composure. At 26, Rice has evolved from defensive shield to all-action figure, anchoring Arsenal’s unbeaten run.
🏴©️ Wayne Rooney has hailed Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as a "future captain" of England:
🗣️ Rooney: "For me, he's the one who's probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots.
He's the right one to take over [Kane] for me, because [of] his drive, his personality. Everyone… pic.twitter.com/vH5hjUYeCG
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Footballtweet) December 22, 2025
Rice’s Arsenal Transformation
Since his £105m move from West Ham in 2023, Rice has changed Arsenal’s midfield. This season, he’s scored three goals and four assists in 18 outings. But his true value lies in the intangibles. He has 92% pass accuracy, 15 interceptions, and a knack for nullify threats like City’s Kevin De Bruyne. Arteta’s tactical tweaks have unleashed Rice, turning potential into potency amid Arsenal’s record-low goals conceded.
The Underrated Factor
Why underrated? Rice shuns the spotlight, yielding headlines to flair players like Bukayo Saka. Rooney notes his humility: “He’s irreplaceable.” Critics once questioned the fee; now, he’s the glue binding defense to attack, embodying Arsenal’s brave rebirth.
England’s Next Leader
Rooney’s boldest claim? Rice as Harry Kane’s successor: “He’s the future captain of England.” With Gareth Southgate’s legacy in flux, Rice’s leadership in Arsenal’s huddle, positions him perfectly.
As featured on GoonerNews.com