Arsenal May Have Found Their Next Declan Rice in Rising Star

While Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes may be fading, the season is far from over as they prepare for a crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid. Injury setbacks continue to plague the team, with Gabriel’s absence being the latest blow.

The attack has been particularly impacted in recent months, leading to the bold decision to deploy Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker – a move that has yielded 5 goals from the Spaniard. However, Merino’s performance against Everton on Saturday highlighted his value in midfield, where he won 14 duels in a physical display.

Looking ahead to next season, Declan Rice will undoubtedly be a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield. The £105 million signing has become invaluable since joining in 2023, contributing 13 goals and assists across all competitions this season. His powerful runs from deep and set-piece prowess have been particular strengths.

While Martin Odegaard’s role may be in question, another player is emerging who could emulate Rice’s impact – 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. The teenager impressed against Everton with a magnificent run from his own box, showing Rice-like strength and ball-carrying ability.

Though naturally a central midfielder, Lewis-Skelly has excelled as an inverted left-back this season. However, his long-term future likely lies in midfield, where he can utilize his aggressive dueling, ball-winning, and exceptional dribbling skills.

A midfield trio of Odegaard, Rice and Lewis-Skelly could emerge as Arsenal’s best option next season. Saturday’s performance offered a glimpse of the youngster’s potential to develop into a Rice-like presence in the Gunners’ engine room.