Gary Neville labels Arsenal star as Roy Keane, and his take has stirred fresh debate across the fanbase.
Arsenal have their own Roy Keane thinks Gary Neville
Gary Neville didn’t hesitate during his podcast chat. He said most players in this Arsenal squad can be swapped without much fuss. But, Declan Rice sits in a different lane. During the podcast Neville said, “This is your Roy Keane.”
Rice has become the heartbeat of Arteta’s setup, the one player who gives the team balance. That isn’t a small compliment coming from someone who knows the club inside out.
The player has grown into the sort of player who dictates everything. His movements and his recoveries reveals a mix of control and calm . This brings to mind the leaders of the past eras to the older fans.
The transfer fee Gunners paid to sign him is really huge. But, with every game, the price tag appears to be less risky and more like a steal. In case he is fit, there is no question about his position in the first team.
Arteta’s Biggest Puzzle Is Keeping Him Fresh
Mikel Arteta now faces a real test, not in tactics, but in management. Rice covers so much ground that the fear of overworking him is real. Arsenal lean on him for control, energy, leadership, and tempo. That kind of load takes a toll. Arteta knows that losing Rice to injury would change the entire rhythm of the side.
Protecting him becomes just as important as playing him. Finding the right moments to rest him without weakening the team is the puzzle ahead.
Author’s opinion:
Rice has grown into the core of this Arsenal team. The Keane comparison may spark arguments, but his presence and influence are impossible to ignore. Arsenal’s season will swing on how well Arteta manages his minutes.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
