Overview
- Asked about being a frontrunner for the Ballon d'Or, Rice told the i Paper the accolade is "far, far away" and that his focus is on winning trophies and performing well.
- Multiple outlets have cast Rice among the leading candidates after a standout season for Arsenal, with former Gunner Anders Limpar suggesting it could be a two‑horse race with Gabriel if Arsenal win everything.
- Arsenal are presented as contenders across competitions and visit Bayer Leverkusen this week for the Champions League last‑16 first leg.
- Coverage notes that a major role with England at this summer's World Cup could strengthen Rice's case for the award.
- Rice joined Arsenal from West Ham in 2023 for a reported £105 million and has become a central figure under Mikel Arteta.