Arsenal’s Best Signing Since Odegaard: Edu’s £105m Masterstroke

When Arsenal face reigning champions Real Madrid in next month’s Champions League quarter-final, all eyes will be on Martin Odegaard as he takes on his former club. The Gunners captain joined Arsenal permanently in 2021 for £30 million after an initial loan spell, marking a key acquisition for manager Mikel Arteta and then-sporting director Edu Gaspar.

While Odegaard has been brilliant overall for Arsenal, contributing 73 goals and assists in 185 appearances, his form has dipped this season with just 2 goals and 4 assists in the league. In his stead, another signing has emerged as the club’s most impactful player – Declan Rice.

The England international joined Arsenal from West Ham United for a club-record £105 million in 2023. Despite the enormous price tag, Rice has thrived in the heart of Arsenal’s midfield, whether deployed as a number 8 or number 6. With 13 goal contributions already this term, Rice is proving his worth beyond just attacking output.

Pundit Jamie Carragher notes that Rice’s passing range is “vastly underrated.” The midfielder ranks in the top 6% of European midfielders for assists per 90 minutes and the top 5% for progressive carries, showcasing his ability to drive Arsenal forward. Rice has also delivered in key moments, like his stunning equalizer against Manchester United.

While Arsenal have other standout talents like Bukayo Saka, Rice has quickly become the glue holding the team together. His performances suggest Edu may have struck a bargain, with former manager David Moyes believing Rice could have fetched £150 million or more.

As Arsenal push for Premier League and Champions League glory, Rice’s impact since joining proves he may be the club’s most significant signing since Odegaard arrived. The England star has justified his hefty price tag and then some, emerging as a true leader for Mikel Arteta’s side.