Paul Scholes claims £55m star is ‘better than’ Arsenal Star Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has stirred up the Premier League conversation once again, this time by boldly claiming that Sandro Tonali is better than Declan Rice and *Moises Caicedo.

The outspoken pundit revealed that he “prefers” the Newcastle United midfielder’s style of play to that of Arsenal star Rice, despite the England international’s incredible consistency and influence for club and country.

Since joining Newcastle United from AC Milan for £55 million, Sandro Tonali has quickly become one of Eddie Howe’s most important players. The Italian international helped Newcastle qualifies for the Champions League and end their long trophy drought by lifting the Carabao Cup.

His ability to dictate tempo, control possession, and contribute offensively has impressed many, including one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders.

Speaking on Sky Bet’s The Overlap, Paul Scholes didn’t hesitate to explain why he believes Tonali edges out Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo, two of the league’s highest-rated midfielders.

“Right now? That’s tough,” Scholes said. “I still don’t class Moises Caicedo as an all-round midfield player. I know he scored a great goal and was brilliant the other day.”

The former Manchester United star acknowledged Caicedo’s defensive excellence but expressed his preference for more creative, controlling midfielders.

“I got some stick last year after having a go at him and I almost thought about taking that back because he was brilliant in the Club World Cup,” he admitted. “I just prefer the controlling type of midfield players who play with a bit more style and can score goals a bit more often than Caicedo.”

While Scholes gave credit to Caicedo’s goal-scoring effort against Liverpool, he made it clear that players like Tonali are more in line with the type of midfielders he admires.

“It was a brilliant goal against Liverpool but you wouldn’t be surprised if he didn’t do that again for another 18 months, would you?” Scholes continued. “He’s one of the best at what he does, breaking up play, he’s brilliant at that. But I prefer the other types.”

The legendary midfielder also praised Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister for his ability to control games, but when it came to choosing the best in the Premier League, Scholes was adamant.

“Alexis Mac Allister was absolutely brilliant last season, he controlled a lot of games and I think Liverpool are missing that at the moment. I love Sandro Tonali as well. He’s been brilliant. Very good. I would probably choose Tonali at this point.”

Declan Rice vs Tonali — Who’s Better?

When pressed to clarify whether he truly believes Tonali is superior to Arsenal’s Declan Rice, Scholes doubled down without hesitation.

“Yes, you’re going to say Declan Rice but I think he’s better than Rice,” Scholes insisted. “I really like Rice, don’t get me wrong, I think he’s got everything. Sometimes he takes a few too many touches of the ball and tries to look a bit more stylish than necessary. He can do everything but I just don’t think he does it enough. I prefer Tonali but they’re both good players.”

Declan Rice, who moved to Arsenal from West Ham for a record £105 million, has been nothing short of outstanding since his arrival. The England international has become the heartbeat of Mikel Arteta’s midfield, playing a crucial role in Arsenal’s title challenges and helping England reach two European Championship finals.

However, Paul Scholes’ comments highlight the subtle differences in midfield styles that separate players like Tonali and Rice. While Rice is known for his leadership, defensive work, and box-to-box energy, Tonali brings a touch of Italian flair, combining defensive discipline with smooth passing and creativity.

With Scholes’ remarks reigniting debate, comparisons between Sandro Tonali and Declan Rice are bound to continue. Arsenal fans may disagree, but the Manchester United icon’s admiration for Tonali underlines not only how good the Italian is but also the quality of Declan as well.