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Steven Gerrard has been cited as an example to explain why Arsenal’s midfield maestro Declan Rice is not quite ready to be considered a Ballon d’Or contender. Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler, speaking to GOAL, shared his view that the Gunners’ key man still needs to elevate his game to join the ranks of world football’s elite. The 27-year-old, who remains an all-action presence in midfield, will soon represent England at the upcoming World Cup.

Rice has been instrumental in restoring major honours to Arsenal.

Many observers believe that Rice could make a serious case for Golden Ball recognition in 2026, considering his pivotal role in Arsenal’s resurgence under Mikel Arteta. The midfielder was central to the Gunners’ triumph as they clinched the Premier League title, bringing it back to north London after a 22-year wait.

Since his record-breaking £105 million ($141m) transfer from West Ham in 2023, Rice has been an almost ever-present force in Arsenal’s midfield. His influence has helped drive the team to new heights, making him one of Arteta’s most valuable assets.

England are set to embark on another campaign in search of World Cup glory.

Rice has emerged as one of the final components in England’s pursuit of success. With the national team having gone six decades without a major international trophy, hopes are high that Rice could be the charm that sparks a historic triumph on North American soil this summer.

Winning a world title with the Three Lions would undoubtedly boost Rice’s standing among Ballon d’Or candidates, potentially compensating for any disappointment at club level, such as the recent Champions League final heartbreak.

Fowler, however, remains unconvinced that Rice is ready to be hailed as the best footballer on the planet. Drawing comparisons to former England captain and Liverpool great Steven Gerrard — who finished third in the 2005 Ballon d’Or voting — Fowler believes the Arsenal No.41 still has a few steps to climb before reaching that elite bracket.

Why Rice has not yet matched Liverpool legend Gerrard’s level

Speaking exclusively to GOAL via BetMGM, former England striker Fowler was asked whether Rice could become a consistent Ballon d’Or contender. He replied, “I like Declan Rice.”

“When we talk about Declan Rice and how good he is, you naturally compare him to someone like Stevie G. If I’m honest, I don’t think he’s at Steven’s level. That’s not me being biased because of Liverpool. I do think Declan Rice has become a more complete player since joining Arsenal, but he’s not quite at Steven Gerrard’s level yet. Remember, Steven Gerrard himself never won the Ballon d’Or.”

“Performance-wise, Rice has been excellent for Arsenal and has definitely improved. But I think he still needs to take another step up if I’m being truthful. It might sound critical, but it’s not meant that way. Declan Rice is a brilliant footballer, just not quite on the Ballon d’Or radar yet.”

Could a Ballon d’Or triumph be part of Rice’s future?

In the 2025 Ballon d’Or rankings, Rice placed 27th, reflecting a solid but not spectacular season. Despite failing to secure a major trophy with Arsenal that year, his consistent performances caught the attention of football observers around the world.

Now, with a domestic title under his belt and having come close to a remarkable double with Arsenal, Rice’s attention turns towards international ambitions. The humble midfielder from Kingston upon Thames readily admits he is not yet at Gerrard’s level, but his determination to improve remains unwavering. Given his growth trajectory and competitive spirit, a future Golden Ball win might not be beyond reach.