Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice has received glowing praise from Clarence Seedorf, although the Dutch legend believes there is still one area of his game that can reach an even higher level.
Speaking during an interview with Rio Ferdinand, Seedorf described Rice as one of Arsenal’s key players but suggested the England international could become even more dominant by demanding the ball more often.
The discussion came after Ferdinand admitted he wanted to see Rice take greater control of matches from central midfield.
“I’d like to see Rice step up a little bit more and go and get the ball,” Ferdinand said.
Seedorf agreed with that assessment, explaining that Rice can sometimes be too reserved despite possessing all the qualities needed to dictate games.
“I think he’s a bit timid sometimes,” Seedorf said.
The former AC Milan and Real Madrid midfielder quickly clarified that his comments were intended as constructive criticism rather than a reflection of Rice’s overall performances.
“I like how he plays generally,” he added.
Seedorf believes Rice would benefit from adopting some of the assertive personality shown by England team-mate Jude Bellingham when taking responsibility during matches.
“I’d like to add some elements of Bellingham in his personality,” he explained. “‘Give me the ball. Go and get the ball. Send people away.'”
According to Seedorf, Rice has already established himself as the heartbeat of Arsenal’s midfield and should continue embracing that responsibility.
“He’s a key midfielder,” he said. “He was a key midfielder during the season for Arsenal.”
The former Netherlands international also pointed to Rice’s age, insisting there is still room for further development despite everything he has already achieved.
“I think he will grow,” Seedorf said. “He’s getting to a point of full maturity.”
Rice enjoyed arguably the best campaign of his career last season, playing a pivotal role as Mikel Arteta’s side secured Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years.
His leadership, ball-winning ability and influence in possession made him one of the outstanding midfielders in English football throughout the campaign.
The 27-year-old has carried that importance into England’s World Cup campaign, although he is currently being monitored after picking up a minor fitness issue during the group stage.
Seedorf believes Rice already possesses the technical and tactical qualities needed to dominate matches consistently.
The next step, in his view, is simply demanding even greater responsibility when games are in the balance.
“You’re a centre midfielder,” Seedorf concluded. “This is your game.”
Given Rice’s rapid development over the past two seasons, Arsenal supporters will hope there is still another level for one of the club’s most influential players to reach.