Football pundit and former Manchester United defender Gary Neville has recently weighed in on the importance of two Arsenal players, asserting that their absence would be a bigger blow to the team than that of club captain Martin Odegaard. Speaking on The Overlap, Neville highlighted the roles of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, praising their impact on Arsenal’s performances this season.
‘Martin Odegaard is a fantastic player and he’s been brilliant for Arsenal’ – Gary Neville
During the discussion, Neville explained that while Odegaard is a crucial player for the Gunners, the contributions of Saka and Rice are even more vital to Arsenal’s current success. “Martin Odegaard is a fantastic player and he’s been brilliant for Arsenal. But if you take Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice out of that team, I think it would be an even bigger loss,” Neville commented.
The former England international emphasized the versatility and consistency of Saka, who has become one of Arsenal’s standout players. “Saka is irreplaceable at the moment. His ability to create, score, and track back defensively is something that Arsenal cannot afford to lose,” Neville added. Saka’s performances have drawn praise from fans and pundits alike, making him a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Neville also spoke highly of Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal in a big-money move from West Ham earlier this season. “Declan Rice has added steel to Arsenal’s midfield. His leadership and defensive presence have elevated them to another level. Losing him would hurt Arsenal more than most people realize,” he stated.
With Arsenal aiming for major silverware this season, Neville’s comments underline the importance of keeping key players like Saka and Rice fit and available. Fans will be hoping that all three players, including Odegaard, remain healthy as Arsenal push for domestic and European glory.
