Former Liverpool and Spain midfielder Thiago Alcantara has named Declan Rice among his top three midfielders in world football during an interview with former England defender Rio Ferdinand.
Rice has enjoyed a remarkable year after helping Arsenal win the Premier League before becoming one of England’s key performers at the World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder has continued to impress in the United States despite managing a neural issue affecting his lower back and hamstring.
His performances have earned praise from supporters, pundits and former players throughout the tournament.
Thiago has now become the latest high-profile figure to hail Rice’s development.
Asked by Ferdinand to build his ideal three-man midfield using current players, Thiago selected Rice alongside Barcelona star Pedri and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha.
The former Bayern Munich and Barcelona midfielder admitted Rice’s recent achievements played a significant part in his decision.
“I would go for Declan Rice,” Thiago said. “He has the momentum after winning the Premier League.”
Thiago also pointed out that Rice has been producing elite performances despite not always playing as a traditional defensive midfielder.
The Spaniard believes the Arsenal star still has even greater levels to reach.
“Whatever he wants,” Thiago said when asked about Rice’s potential. “He’s so smart and has the desire to become better.”
He also praised Rice’s mentality, insisting the midfielder is always looking for ways to improve his game.
“If you tell him he has to improve something, he will do everything to be better,” he added.
Thiago highlighted Rice’s intelligence both on and off the pitch, explaining that he studies opponents and understands how matches develop.
The former midfielder also believes Rice possesses every attribute required to dominate modern football.
“He reads the game, he’s excellent on set-pieces, he’s physical and he’s very good on the ball,” Thiago continued. “You see him receiving possession, driving forward and getting into the box.”
Rice has expanded his attacking influence under Mikel Arteta while remaining one of the Premier League’s most complete midfielders defensively.
His ability to dictate games has also carried over to international football, where he has remained central to Thomas Tuchel’s plans despite recent fitness concerns.
Thiago completed his midfield by selecting Pedri as his number eight, describing the Barcelona playmaker as the best midfielder in the world, while also praising Vitinha’s all-round influence for Paris Saint-Germain.
For Rice, being chosen alongside two of Europe’s outstanding midfielders is another indication of the level he has reached following Arsenal’s title-winning campaign.
With England preparing for their World Cup round-of-16 clash against Mexico, Rice will have another opportunity to justify the praise from one of the finest midfielders of his generation.