Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have been two Arsenal players driving the team’s title charge this season, and the latter has been speaking about his teammate.

Rice was sublime against Sunderland over the weekend and played a key role in helping drag Mikel Arteta’s team back into the game during the second half.

Since his move from West Ham United back in 2023, the midfielder has become a hugely popular figure at the Emirates Stadium, through his performances and personality.

The Arsenal duo are currently away on international duty with England, and Saka has spoken about how important Rice has been for the Gunners this season.

Bukayo Saka hails Declan Rice’s leadership at Arsenal

Bukayo Saka has praised Declan Rice’s leadership at Arsenal and has spoken about how he really motivates the squad in the dressing room.

Rice is the perfect role model for many young Arsenal players, and he has particularly taken the very talented Max Dowman under his wing in North London.

The 26-year-old is not unfamiliar with leadership, having captained West Ham to a European trophy back in 2023.

Rice, who’s been compared to Bryan Robson, has now really stepped up this season for the Gunners, and he is also doing the same for the Three Lions.

Speaking about his teammate, Saka told TalkSPORT: “Yeah, I think with Decs, he’s not only a great player, but he’s a great leader. Obviously, he was captain at West Ham and even around Arsenal, you know, he’s a big leader.

“He’s a guy who takes a lot of responsibility in the change room and gets the boys going. So, credit to him for that, and of course, he’s doing that here now as well. So it’s just a credit to him. He’s in really good form, really good moment, and happy to be his teammate.”

Arsenal paid £100m for Rice to bring him across London, and despite such a big investment, it is quickly looking like one which will eventually pay off big time.

Speaking about exactly how Rice demonstrates his leadership, Saka revealed how he is a great communicator, but he also leads with how he acts on the pitch.

“Obviously, the way he speaks, communicates, he knows what to say at the right moment. But I think to have that backed up with his presence on the pitch, how he plays, he plays every game, he’s always available. So yeah, I think it’s just like all of that speaks for itself, you know,” added Saka.

Bukayo Saka’s record with Declan Rice speaks volumes

Saka has a superb record playing alongside Rice for both England and Arsenal, with the duo having played 129 times as teammates.

Apps	Wins	Draws	Losses	Joint goal participation
129	80	26	23	3

Bukayo Saka’s record with Declan Rice (Transfermarkt)During that span of matches, the pair have won 80 times, drawn on 26 occasions and lost 23.

Over the next year, Rice and Saka will hope to have achieved some big things in the Premier League, Champions League, and the World Cup on the horizon.