An in-depth comparison between Declan Rice and Rodri. Who stands out as the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League? Stats, tactics & impact examined.
Declan Rice vs Rodri: Who’s the Premier League’s Best DM?
The Premier League is no stranger to world-class talent, and in the defensive midfield position, two names rise above the rest: Declan Rice and Rodri. Both players are central to their team’s identity and tactical setup, offering strength, intelligence, and composure in the middle of the park. But the question remains—who is truly the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League?
In this in-depth analysis, we compare their playing styles, statistics, tactical roles, and influence on the Xe88 league to determine who reigns supreme.
The Role of a Modern Defensive Midfielder
Before diving into the individual profiles, it’s essential to understand how the role of a defensive midfielder has evolved. Traditionally tasked with breaking up play and shielding the back four, the modern DM is now also expected to initiate attacks, dictate tempo, and contribute creatively.
Players like Sergio Busquets, Fernandinho, and N’Golo Kanté have redefined the position, and now both Rice and Rodri are carrying that torch in the Premier League.
Declan Rice – Arsenal’s Midfield Anchor
Since his high-profile move from West Ham to Arsenal in 2023, Declan Rice has quickly established himself as the heart of Mikel Arteta’s midfield. His presence has elevated Arsenal’s defensive resilience and added calmness in possession.
Key Attributes:
-
Tackling & Interceptions: Rice averages 2.5 tackles and 1.8 interceptions per game, showing his natural ball-winning ability.
-
Passing Range: He completes over 90% of his passes, frequently distributing both short and long-range balls with precision.
-
Leadership: At just 26, Rice captains his national team and shows maturity beyond his years, commanding the midfield and motivating teammates.
Rice’s ability to read the game and cover ground allows more freedom for Arsenal’s creative players like Ødegaard and Saka. He’s not just a destroyer; he’s a strategic anchor.
Rodri – Manchester City’s Tactical Brain
Rodri has been instrumental in Pep Guardiola’s dominance in the Premier League. Calm, calculated, and supremely intelligent, the Spaniard is the metronome of Manchester City’s fluid system.
Key Attributes:
-
Passing & Control: Rodri averages nearly 100 passes per game with 93% accuracy, dictating City’s rhythm from deep.
-
Positioning: Rarely out of position, he ensures City are never caught in transition, always placing himself between the ball and the goal.
-
Big Match Presence: From scoring the winner in the 2023 Champions League final to controlling title-deciding games, Rodri consistently shows up when it matters.
Rodri’s role is subtle but crucial. He doesn’t just stop counterattacks; he anticipates them. His influence is measured not only in stats but in control—he makes City tick.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Rice vs Rodri
| Metric | Declan Rice | Rodri |
|---|---|---|
| Tackles per Game | 2.5 | 2.0 |
| Interceptions per Game | 1.8 | 1.3 |
| Pass Completion % | 91% | 93% |
| Long Balls per Game | 4.2 | 6.1 |
| Goals this Season | 5 | 7 |
| Key Passes per Game | 1.1 | 1.4 |
| Aerial Duels Won | 65% | 70% |
From the stats, Rodri edges it in control and creativity, while Rice offers more physicality and intensity in defensive actions.
Tactical Impact on Their Teams
-
Rice at Arsenal: Offers Arteta the flexibility to push full-backs forward while ensuring cover in transitions. His box-to-box energy and ball-carrying ability allow Arsenal to shift from defense to attack swiftly.
-
Rodri at City: Integral to Guardiola’s build-up play. With him in the pivot, City confidently maintains possession, recycles the ball, and patiently breaks down deep blocks.
Both players are irreplaceable in their systems. Without Rodri, City’s rhythm stutters. Without Rice, Arsenal’s midfield looks disjointed.
Intangibles: Leadership & Mentality
Declan Rice is a natural leader. Even before joining Arsenal, he captained West Ham and has become a key figure for England. His presence inspires confidence.
Rodri, while quieter, leads through example. Rarely flustered, he brings stability and calm under pressure. His Champions League final goal highlighted his composure in high-stakes moments.
Fans’ Perspectives
Among fans, the debate rages on:
-
Arsenal fans hail Rice as their midfield savior, comparing him to legends like Patrick Vieira.
-
City fans believe Rodri is the glue that holds their treble-winning machine together.
Polls and pundits often swing depending on form, but both players are respected across the league.
Conclusion: Who’s the Best DM in the League?
If the discussion is purely about control, consistency, and tactical intelligence, Rodri is currently the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League. His understanding of space and control in tight matches is unmatched.
However, Declan Rice brings a different dynamic—more physicality, more drive, and the potential to surpass Rodri in the coming seasons, especially as he grows into his Arsenal role.
In the end, it may not be about who is better overall, but who is better for their team’s needs.
Final Thoughts
The league has been blessed with world-class midfielders over the decades, and the Rice vs Rodri debate is just another chapter in the ongoing evolution of the beautiful game. Both players elevate the standards of defensive midfield play and are central to their team’s ambitions.
As fans of the game, we should celebrate this era of elite midfield talent. Whether you’re cheering for Arsenal or City—or simply a lover of top-tier football—there’s no doubt these two stars are redefining the league.
Join the conversation and support your favorite team in the league. Whether you stand with Rice or Rodri, your voice matters in the league journey!