Gaizka Mendieta Backs Declan Rice to Lead Arsenal to Champions League Glory

Former Spain international midfielder Gaizka Mendieta has publicly endorsed Declan Rice as the key figure capable of leading Arsenal to victory in the upcoming Champions League final. The match against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest represents a critical moment for the London club, with Mendieta highlighting Rice’s leadership qualities and current form. This endorsement comes amid a season where Rice has established himself as a central component of Arsenal's midfield, drawing significant attention from European football circles.

Mendieta’s comments were shared in interviews with outlets such as BoyleSports and bet365, where he praised Rice as one of the most in-form midfielders in the Premier League. The Spanish veteran noted that Rice commands considerable respect in Spain, a sentiment that has grown since the Englishman joined Arsenal from West Ham United in July 2023. Mendieta emphasized that Rice is currently focused on his responsibilities at Arsenal, showing no immediate desire to leave the club despite the high profile of his performances.

Speculation regarding Rice’s future has intensified following his impressive display in the Champions League quarter-finals, where he scored two free kicks against Real Madrid in November 2025. These performances reportedly triggered interest from the Spanish giants, with Mendieta suggesting that Real Madrid would likely consider signing Rice if he ever became available. He described Rice as fitting the specific profile of player that Real Madrid seeks, indicating that the club views him as a potential target should circumstances at Arsenal change.

Ahead of the final in May 2026, Mendieta reiterated his belief that Rice could be the leader who helps Arsenal secure the trophy. While acknowledging the difficulty of winning the competition, referencing his own past experiences, Mendieta remains confident in Rice’s ability to guide his team. The narrative surrounding Rice has shifted from domestic dominance to European contention, with his role in the upcoming final seen as decisive for Arsenal’s historic ambitions.

What is confirmed

Reported Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta has publicly praised Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice and discussed his potential future at Real Madrid in interviews with betting-related outlets such as BoyleSports and bet365.[1][2][6]
Reported Mendieta has stated that Declan Rice is currently focused on playing for Arsenal in the Premier League and Champions League and is not looking to leave the club at the moment.[1][2]
Reported Mendieta has suggested that if circumstances at Arsenal changed and Rice became available, Real Madrid would likely consider signing him because he fits the profile of player they seek.[1][2]
Reported Mendieta has described Rice as one of the best or most in‑form midfielders in the Premier League and a player highly respected in Spain.[1][2]

Timeline

2023-07-01 — Declan Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham United, beginning his Arsenal career before later becoming a central figure in the club's midfield.
2025-11-01 — Reports noted speculation about Real Madrid's interest in Declan Rice after he scored two free kicks against them in the Champions League quarter-finals.
2026-01-08 — Gaizka Mendieta said Declan Rice commands respect in Spain and that Real Madrid would likely consider him if he ever became available.
2026-04-01 — Arsenal progressed deep into the Champions League campaign, with Rice contributing as a key player in the competition.
2026-05-01 — Ahead of Arsenal's Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, Mendieta said Rice could be the key leader who helps Arsenal win the trophy.

Related people

FAQ

Why does Gaizka Mendieta think Declan Rice can win the Champions League?

Mendieta believes Rice is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and commands respect in Spain. He stated that Rice could be the leader who helps Arsenal win the trophy against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest. Mendieta highlighted Rice’s current focus on Arsenal and his high form, suggesting he fits the profile of a player capable of leading a team to major European success in the upcoming final.

Is Declan Rice likely to leave Arsenal for Real Madrid?

Mendieta stated that Rice is currently focused on playing for Arsenal and is not looking to leave the club at the moment. However, he suggested that if circumstances changed and Rice became available, Real Madrid would likely consider signing him. This speculation arose after Rice scored two free kicks against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals, fitting the profile of player they seek.

What is the context of Mendieta's comments on Real Madrid transfers?

Mendieta referenced his own past experience, noting that Real Madrid wanted him but never triggered his release clause. He used this context to discuss Rice’s potential future, stating that Rice is highly respected in Spain. Mendieta indicated that while Rice is focused on Arsenal, Real Madrid would view him as a viable target if he ever became available, given his current status as a top midfielder.