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Ian Wright Backs Declan Rice for Shock Ballon d’Or Claim

Published

4 months ago

April 24, 2026

Ian Wright predicts Declan Rice Ballon d’Or chance if Arsenal win Premier League and Champions League this season

Arsenal legend Ian Wright has made a bold claim that midfielder Declan Rice could be in contention for the Ballon d’Or if Arsenal secure major trophies this season.

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Wright made the statement on the Stick to Football podcast ahead of Arsenal’s Premier League fixture against Newcastle United, where he discussed the club’s title ambitions and individual awards.

The former striker said Rice could emerge as a leading candidate for the Ballon d’Or if Arsenal win both the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League.

He also added that the midfielder should be considered for the Premier League Player of the Year award if the club goes on to win the league title.

Declan Rice, who plays for Arsenal, joined the club from West Ham United in 2023 for a reported £105 million transfer fee, making him one of the most expensive signings in Premier League history at the time.

Since arriving at the club, the England international has become a key figure in Arsenal’s midfield, known for his defensive stability, leadership, and ability to influence both phases of play.

Rice has made over 150 appearances in top-flight and European competitions for Arsenal, contributing goals and assists while maintaining a consistent presence in the squad.

Ian Wright’s comments have added to growing discussions around Rice’s influence this season, particularly as Arsenal continue to compete on multiple fronts.

The midfielder’s performances have been widely praised by supporters and analysts, with many pointing to his leadership qualities in high-pressure matches.

Arsenal’s push for domestic and European success remains central to the debate, with individual awards often tied to team achievements at the highest level.

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Wright’s endorsement places Rice among early talking points for end-of-season accolades should Arsenal deliver silverware.

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Cubarsí Leads 2026 Golden Boy Race Ahead of Yamal

Published

1 hour ago

August 18, 2026

Mariam Balogun

Pau Cubarsí tops the current Golden Boy Award 2026 standings ahead of teammate Lamine Yamal and Real Madrid’s Yan Diomande

Barcelona defender Pau Cubarsí is currently leading the 2026 Golden Boy Award race, according to the latest standings released by Italian sports newspaper Tuttosport, with teammate Lamine Yamal in second and Yan Diomande third.

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Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported on Tuesday that Cubarsí is currently ahead of the field as the voting process continues, with the final vote still expected later this year.

Yamal’s second-place position comes with an important caveat. The Barcelona forward cannot win the award again this year because he previously claimed the Golden Boy prize in 2024.

The 2026 race is still open, with Tuttosport continuing to update its rankings before the final voting stage.

The award is presented to the outstanding young player in European top-flight football and is decided by an international jury of sports journalists.

Cubarsí’s position reflects his growing reputation at Barcelona. The defender has become an increasingly important figure for the Spanish club and has already collected major honours during his young career.

Diomande’s presence in third also underlines the strength of this year’s field.

The Real Madrid youngster is among the 100 players initially shortlisted for the 2026 award, with the list due to be reduced to 20 finalists before the winner is selected.

The Golden Boy has a distinguished history, with previous winners including Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham and Yamal.

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For Cubarsí, however, the immediate task is to maintain his advantage. With the decisive voting still to come, the Barcelona defender has emerged as the early favourite, but the final outcome remains open.