Limpar Makes Huge Ballon d’Or Claim About Declan Rice and Gabriel in Arsenal Two-Horse Race

Arsenal legend Anders Limpar says Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhaes could battle for the Ballon d’Or if Mikel Arteta’s side win major trophies.

Arsenal legend Anders Limpar believes the 2026 Ballon d’Or could be decided between two Arsenal stars Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhaes if the club wins major trophies this season.

Limpar claims Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhães are currently leading the race within Arsenal.

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Speaking in an interview with Fruity King, the former Arsenal midfielder explained that both players have been crucial to the team’s performances this season.

However, Limpar believes Rice currently holds the advantage due to his consistency and leadership in midfield.

Limpar Calls Rice Arsenal’s “True Engine”

Limpar praised Rice’s influence on the team, describing him as the driving force behind Arsenal’s success.

“The Ballon d’Or will be between two Arsenal players this year — Declan Rice and Gabriel,” Limpar said.

He then explained why Rice stands slightly ahead in his personal rankings.

“Up to this point, it is Declan Rice. He is the true captain for me. He is the engine of this Arsenal team and makes the whole side run.”

Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham United in a record-breaking £105 million transfer in 2023 and has since become one of the most influential midfielders in European football.

Limpar believes his week-to-week consistency has set him apart.

“Declan performs every week and hasn’t had injury issues. That consistency puts him just ahead.”

Gabriel Also Among Europe’s Elite Defenders

While Rice leads Limpar’s early Ballon d’Or prediction, Gabriel has also earned strong praise.

The Brazilian defender has become a cornerstone of Arsenal’s defence under Mikel Arteta.

Limpar believes Gabriel’s performances place him among the best centre-backs in Europe.

Arteta has relied heavily on the Brazilian throughout the season, particularly during Arsenal’s strong defensive run in both domestic and European competitions.

However, Limpar noted that minor injury setbacks have slightly impacted Gabriel’s chances compared with Rice.

Limpar also addressed the role of Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard in the Ballon d’Or discussion.

While he acknowledged Ødegaard’s importance, Limpar suggested recent fitness issues have slowed the Norwegian’s momentum.

“He should be up there,” Limpar said, “but he has struggled a little bit with injuries.”

In Limpar’s view, Rice and Gabriel are currently the two Arsenal players performing consistently enough to challenge for the prestigious award.

Arsenal Success Could Decide Ballon d’Or Outcome Between Rice & Gabriel Magalhaes

Limpar stressed that Arsenal’s chances of producing a Ballon d’Or winner depend heavily on team success.

“If Arsenal win everything, Declan would be my pick for the Ballon d’Or,” he explained.

At the moment, Arsenal remain strong contenders in multiple competitions, including the UEFA Champions League.

Arteta’s side finished top of the Champions League league phase and are preparing for a knockout clash with Bayer Leverkusen.

The Gunners also remain firmly in the Premier League title race, increasing the possibility of a historic trophy haul.

Despite the growing attention around individual awards, Rice has previously played down the idea of winning the Ballon d’Or.

The England international said it would be “unreal” to be considered for the award but insisted his focus remains on team achievements.

Rice believes success with Arsenal would naturally place players in the conversation for football’s biggest individual honour.

Arsenal’s Progress Under Arteta

Limpar’s prediction highlights the remarkable progress Arsenal have made under Mikel Arteta.

The club has transformed into one of Europe’s most competitive teams, boasting a strong defence, dynamic midfield and a balanced squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.

If Arsenal complete a historic trophy-winning season, the Ballon d’Or conversation could indeed revolve around players wearing red and white.

For Limpar, the debate would come down to one key question — which Arsenal star deserves the honour most.

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