Arsenal is looking to win its first major trophy after 22 years and according to Murphy, the form of England midfielder Rice, will make this easier for Mikel Arteta’s side.
Rice has hardly missed a game for the Gunners since his £105m move from West Ham in 2023.
Despite the Gunners bringing in the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi last summer former Premier League star, Murphy still views Rice as the ‘main man’ at the Emirates Stadium.
“They’re not reliant now on one or two players,” the former England international added.
“I still think Declan Rice is a massive player for them. I know they brought in Christian Norgaard from Brentford who is a good player actually, I like him a lot.
“But Rice has got that physical athleticism, he’s so good on the press. I’m not saying Arsenal wouldn’t win games without him but I think he’s the one, he’s become their main man.”
Arsenal are currently three points clear of second-placed Manchester City in the Premier League table going into this weekend’s fixture.
Rice helped Mikel Arteta’s side beat Atletico Madrid 4-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday. He provided the assist for Gabriel Magalhaes’ opener.
