Arsenal are enjoying a sensational start to the 2025/26 season, emerging as one of the most formidable teams in English and European football. Under the meticulous guidance of manager Mikel Arteta, the Gunners have showcased a blend of attacking flair, defensive solidity, and tactical discipline, positioning themselves as serious contenders for both the Premier League and Champions League titles. However, despite their near-flawless performances, former footballer Danny Murphy has pinpointed a critical vulnerability in Arsenal’s squad—a potential Achilles’ heel tied to their star midfielder, Declan Rice.
A Team Without Weaknesses… Almost
Arsenal’s current squad is widely regarded as the most complete in England. Their seamless performances across competitions have earned praise from fans and pundits alike, with Arteta’s tactical acumen transforming the Gunners into a well-oiled machine. From their dynamic attacking play to their resolute defending, Arsenal have demonstrated an ability to dominate opponents and maintain consistency at the highest level.
Yet, according to Danny Murphy, there exists a single, glaring weakness that could derail their ambitions. Speaking on talkSPORT, Murphy warned: “Arsenal don’t have many weaknesses right now. But if you take Declan Rice out of that team, they’ve got a real problem because no one else can do what he does.”
The Indispensable Declan Rice
Since joining Arsenal in the summer of 2023 for a club-record transfer fee, Declan Rice has established himself as the heartbeat of Arteta’s system. The 26-year-old midfielder is far more than a defensive shield. Positioned as a deep-lying playmaker, Rice combines tireless work rate, exceptional game intelligence, and pinpoint passing to dictate the tempo of Arsenal’s play. His ability to break up opposition attacks, initiate counter-attacks with precise long balls, and maintain positional discipline makes him the linchpin of the team.
Rice’s impact is evident in his consistent presence in Arteta’s starting lineup. Whether it’s shielding the backline or orchestrating play from deep, his contributions are integral to Arsenal’s success. His versatility allows him to seamlessly transition between defensive duties and creative responsibilities, making him a unique asset in modern football.
The Problem: No True Replacement
Murphy’s concern is not without merit. Should Rice be sidelined by injury, suspension, or fatigue, Arsenal lack a direct replacement capable of replicating his multifaceted role. While the squad boasts depth in most areas, the absence of a like-for-like substitute for Rice exposes a significant risk. Other midfield options, such as Thomas Partey or Jorginho, bring experience but lack the same blend of physicality, defensive nous, and playmaking ability that Rice provides. This gap in the squad could disrupt Arsenal’s rhythm and leave them vulnerable against top-tier opposition.
A Glimmer of Hope: Myles Lewis-Skelly
Amid this concern, there is a potential solution on the horizon in the form of 18-year-old academy product Myles Lewis-Skelly. The young midfielder has already shown flashes of brilliance, notably with a dazzling run and assist in Arsenal’s Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid. Trained as a central midfielder, Lewis-Skelly possesses the raw attributes to potentially fill Rice’s shoes in the future. His composure, vision, and technical ability have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s brightest talents.
However, Lewis-Skelly’s relative inexperience means he is not yet ready to shoulder the immense responsibility of replacing Rice outright. While his potential is undeniable, expecting an 18-year-old to immediately step into the role of a player as pivotal as Rice is a tall order. Arsenal will need to carefully nurture his development to ensure he can eventually provide the necessary cover or even challenge for a starting spot.
A Challenge for Arteta
As Arsenal continue their pursuit of silverware in the 2025/26 season, addressing this reliance on Declan Rice will be crucial. Arteta’s ability to adapt his system or identify a suitable backup will determine whether this “weakness” remains a looming threat. For now, Arsenal’s success hinges on keeping Rice fit and available, as his absence could expose the fragility beneath their otherwise impeccable setup.
In a season where Arsenal appear poised to compete for every major trophy, the irony is clear: their greatest strength—Declan Rice—also represents their biggest obstacle. Until a viable alternative emerges, the Gunners must tread carefully, knowing that their number one star is both their greatest asset and their most critical vulnerability.