Manchester City forward Jack Grealish believes that Arsenal have a player that reminds him of City’s talisman, Kevin De Bruyne. The comparison comes amidst the growing rivalry between Arsenal and Manchester City, a rivalry that has intensified over recent seasons, particularly on the pitch.
While managers Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola maintain a close friendship and mutual respect, there is little affection between the players, as evidenced by the fiery 2-2 draw in their latest clash. Key players were absent from the showdown, with Arsenal missing captain Martin Odegaard and City without De Bruyne. Despite this, the game left many talking points, one of which involved the similarities between Rice and De Bruyne.
De Bruyne, widely regarded as one of the best midfielders to grace the Premier League, is a unique talent. Being compared to him is an honor for any player, especially from a key figure like Grealish, even if they play for a rival team.
During a recent segment for EA FC 25, Grealish, alongside Declan Rice and Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, was asked to rank their speed. While Rice rated himself as the slowest of the trio, Grealish disagreed, suggesting Rice’s playing style with the ball resembled that of De Bruyne.
“It’s difficult because you cover the ground so well,” Grealish told Rice. “When you drive, bro, you are so quick. You remind me of De Bruyne. Kev isn’t mad fast, but when he’s running with the ball, he’s hard to catch.” Rice, taking the comparison with a smile, responded, “I’ll take that.”
This high praise from Grealish comes as Rice continues to shine at Arsenal following his record-breaking transfer from West Ham United last summer. Despite initial pressure, Rice has quickly become a vital figure under Arteta. Many fans and analysts now believe that Rice could be the key to Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions, especially with Manchester City’s Rodri out for the rest of the season.
With Rice adapting and evolving at Arsenal, the comparison to De Bruyne hints at the Arsenal star’s growing influence, further fueling the rivalry between the two clubs.
