Arsenal's record-breaking signing Declan Rice has found himself at the centre of a major controversy, but this time it's not about his performances on the pitch. The England midfielder's recently revealed FIFA 24 rating has sent shockwaves through the football community, with fans and experts alike branding the assessment "an absolute joke."
The Numbers That Have Everyone Talking
EA Sports' latest rating sees Rice receive an overall score of 84 in the upcoming game, placing him significantly behind several Premier League contemporaries. The decision has particularly raised eyebrows given Rice's instrumental role in West Ham's Europa Conference League triumph and his £105 million move to title-chasing Arsenal.
Fans quickly took to social media to express their disbelief, with many pointing out that Rice's rating seems disproportionately low compared to other midfielders in the league. One frustrated supporter captured the general sentiment perfectly: "How on earth has Declan Rice only got 84? After the season he's had?"
More Than Just a Game
The controversy highlights the growing importance of FIFA ratings in modern football culture. For players, these digital assessments have become a matter of professional pride, while for fans they serve as a talking point throughout the season. Rice's case appears to be one of the most glaring discrepancies between real-world performance and virtual recognition in recent memory.
What makes the situation particularly puzzling is Rice's consistency at both club and international level. The 24-year-old has established himself as one of Gareth Southgate's first names on the teamsheet for England while delivering commanding performances week in, week out in the Premier League.
What This Means for FIFA 24
As the gaming community awaits the full release, the debate around Rice's rating raises questions about EA Sports' evaluation process. Many are wondering if the system adequately captures the full scope of a player's contribution, particularly for defensive midfielders whose work often goes beyond traditional statistics.
The timing couldn't be more significant, with Rice embarking on a new chapter at Arsenal where expectations are sky-high. Gunners fans will be hoping that his real-world performances continue to outshine his digital counterpart when the new season kicks off.
