Declan Rice, with his exceptional tackling, intelligent game reading, precise passing, and relentless fighting spirit, has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the world. Finding ten players who share a similar playing style is a challenge, as Rice possesses a unique combination of qualities. However, we can look at midfielders who resemble him in certain key aspects — defensive awareness, game control, and even attacking contributions when needed. The following list doesn’t represent perfect replicas of Rice, but rather players who embody many of his core attributes and display a comparable playing style, albeit at varying levels.
1. Rodri (Manchester City)
- Similarities: Rodri is a brilliant midfield anchor, much like Rice. He has excellent game intelligence, intercepting ability, and ball distribution, playing a crucial role in shielding the defense. Both excel at breaking up opposition attacks and regaining possession effectively.
- Differences: Rodri usually operates in a slightly deeper position and focuses more on ball retention and tempo control rather than energetic forward runs. He also has a stronger long-range shooting ability.
2. Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)
- Similarities: Tchouaméni boasts an ideal physique, strong dueling skills, and excellent positional awareness. He’s a prototypical defensive midfielder, capable of protecting the backline and contributing to attacks when needed. Like Rice, he’s accurate in his passing and reads the game well.
- Differences: Tchouaméni tends to play with more physical aggression. Rice currently holds the edge in composure and consistency.
3. Edson Álvarez (West Ham United)
- Similarities: Álvarez is a true warrior in midfield. He’s fearless in duels, tenacious, and an excellent ball-winner. His aerial presence and work rate are impressive, resembling Rice’s combative nature.
- Differences: Álvarez may lack Rice’s refinement and variety in passing. He’s also more prone to disciplinary cards due to his aggressive style.
4. Konrad Laimer (Bayern Munich)
- Similarities: Laimer is a tireless “engine” in midfield, known for his relentless pressing, strong dueling, and constant movement. He reads the game well and is an effective interceptor.
- Differences: Laimer is smaller in stature and less focused on controlling tempo than Rice. He also tends to push forward more often in attacks.
5. Ibrahim Sangaré (Nottingham Forest)
- Similarities: Sangaré is a physically dominant player, excelling in duels and aerial battles. He reads situations well and often makes key interceptions.
- Differences: Sangaré lacks the same level of composure and passing range as Rice. The Englishman’s consistency and tactical awareness remain superior.
6. Manuel Ugarte (Paris Saint-Germain)
- Similarities: Ugarte is an energetic defensive midfielder with strong tackling and dueling abilities. His short passing accuracy and positional discipline make him vital in PSG’s midfield circulation.
- Differences: Ugarte’s long passing and tempo control aren’t yet on Rice’s level. He could also improve his aerial ability.
7. Boubacar Kamara (Aston Villa)
- Similarities: Kamara is a versatile midfielder capable of playing as a defensive midfielder or centre-back. He’s known for his tactical intelligence, interceptions, and clever positioning.
- Differences: Kamara is slightly less dynamic than Rice in transitions and doesn’t possess the same long-passing range.
8. Guido Rodríguez (Real Betis)
- Similarities: Rodríguez is an experienced defensive midfielder with excellent game reading, interceptions, and aerial ability. His short passing accuracy and composure under pressure make him crucial for Betis’ buildup play.
- Differences: Rodríguez lacks Rice’s speed and overall dynamism. His stamina and mobility are also slightly lower.
9. Sander Berge (Burnley)
- Similarities: Berge, with his tall frame and smart positioning, can operate as a defensive or box-to-box midfielder. He’s a good passer and contributes offensively when needed. His versatility is a major asset.
- Differences: Berge lacks Rice’s consistency and defensive awareness at the highest level. His tackling and anticipation could improve.
10. Amadou Onana (Everton)
- Similarities: Onana is a young, promising midfielder with an ideal build and strong dueling ability. He has the potential to become a top defensive midfielder in the future.
- Differences: Onana is still developing and needs time to refine his game reading, passing, and decision-making skills — closing this Top list feature that spotlights players embodying the essence of Declan Rice’s style: balance, leadership, and tactical intelligence shaping the modern midfield.
