Carragher says Rice belongs among Arsenal’s greatest midfielders

Jamie Carragher has described Arsenal’s Declan Rice as the Premier League’s outstanding midfielder after his decisive contribution in the Gunners’ hard-fought victory over Liverpool.

Rice set up the only goal at Anfield, delivering an excellent pass for Kai Havertz, who finished from close range at the far post. The result moved Arsenal to the top of the Premier League, while Liverpool remained fifth.

Both sides created further opportunities after Havertz’s opener, but neither was able to alter the scoreline. Arsenal held on for a 1-0 win in a match in which Rice’s all-round display earned him the Player of the Match award.

Carragher, the former Liverpool defender, agreed with that decision and offered particularly strong praise for Rice’s influence. Speaking on Sky Sports, he said: “He’s by far the best midfielder in the Premier League. It’s not even a debate.”

The former Liverpool player expanded on his assessment in comments reported by the Metro.

“Declan Rice is the best midfielder in this country,” Carragher said. “I’m not an Arsenal fan, but I hear people talking about him sometimes and I’m kind of amazed that they don’t understand football and don’t watch the same game I’m watching.”

Carragher also placed Rice among the most distinguished midfielders in Arsenal’s history, while acknowledging the quality of those who have represented the club.

“He’s a world-class midfielder. There’s absolutely no doubt about that,” he said. “He’s one of the best midfielders who have ever played for Arsenal. They’ve obviously had some great players. He’s among the best of them.”

Rice’s assist gave Arsenal the platform to secure the result after Havertz broke the deadlock. Liverpool had opportunities to respond, but Arsenal’s defence preserved the narrow advantage and ensured the visitors left with all three points.

The match also left the two teams in contrasting positions in the league table: Arsenal climbed into first place, while Liverpool stayed in fifth.

The fixture listings associated with the sides included Champions League matches on 04 November 2026. Liverpool were listed to face Fenerbahce, while Arsenal were scheduled to play Slavia Prague.