Patrick Vieira has named Declan Rice among five current Arsenal players capable of breaking into the legendary 2003-04 Invincibles squad. The former Gunners captain constructed a combined XI merging Arsene Wenger's unbeaten side with Mikel Arteta's modern challengers, validating Rice's status as a generational midfielder and signalling confidence in Arsenal's title push.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Vieira outlined his selections without hesitation. In midfield, Rice displaces Gilberto Silva, the Brazilian enforcer who anchored the Invincibles' dominance. On the right wing, Bukayo Saka replaces Freddie Ljungberg, while Vieira also identified Gabriel Magalhaes as worthy of replacing Kolo Toure in central defence. The Arsenal legend suggested Jurrien Timber could operate at right-back, and proposed David Raya in goal ahead of Jens Lehmann.
Building the Modern Invincibles Defence
Vieira preserved the spine of Wenger's backline where possible. Sol Campbell remained untouchable at centre-back, while Ashley Cole's legendary status prevented any consideration of alternatives. Henry and Bergkamp stayed up front as untouchable figures. Robert Pires kept his left-wing position, creating a hybrid unit blending defensive solidity with contemporary attacking fluidity.
The selection reflects Rice's transformation since joining Arsenal in January 2023. The England international has become instrumental to Arteta's midfield, providing defensive cover and technical security that mirrors Silva's role two decades earlier. Rice's presence anchors Arsenal's press and transition play, skills the Invincibles perfected across an entire season without defeat.
Wenger Edges Arteta in Manager Selection
When asked to choose between Wenger and Arteta to manage the combined side, Vieira credited Arteta's tactical improvements and investment, yet favoured his former boss. "Arsene brought myself and Thierry on really good deals," Vieira explained, honouring the man who shaped both their Arsenal legacies. Arteta's rebuild has brought the Gunners close—within one final victory of their first league title in 22 years.
Arsenal's challenge carries weight. The Invincibles' 49-game unbeaten run in 2003-04 remains sport's rarest achievement, a standard against which every subsequent Arsenal team is measured. Vieira's acknowledgement that five current players merit inclusion signals genuine progress, even if Arteta's squad ultimately falls short of Wenger's historic milestone.
