Prominent media personality Piers Morgan has championed Declan Rice as the preeminent footballer in Europe, advocating for the Arsenal midfielder to be awarded the 2026 Ballon d’Or. Morgan’s endorsement came as he dismissed suggestions that Manchester United’s captain, Bruno Fernandes, should be the primary recipient of the PFA Player of the Year honors. He argued that the England international’s profound influence on the Gunners’ campaign this term places him at the very summit of the continental game.
The 27-year-old has enjoyed a stellar season in London, anchoring the midfield while contributing five goals and 11 assists across 52 fixtures. These efforts have kept Mikel Arteta’s side in contention for a historic Premier League and Champions League double. Rice’s stock rose further following his vital role in Arsenal’s 1-0 semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid on May 5, a result that secured a 2-1 aggregate victory and a place in the final.
Conversely, while Fernandes has posted impressive individual statistics—8 goals and 21 assists in 34 games—United’s lack of trophies is expected to hinder his Ballon d’Or prospects, though he remains a PFA contender. Unmoved by the Portuguese playmaker’s numbers, Morgan took to X to voice his conviction:
“The notion that Bruno Fernandes could win the PFA Player of the Year over @_DeclanRice is absurd. Rice ought to win the Ballon d’Or as well; he has been the finest player in Europe.”
