Midfielder Declan Rice, who played a crucial role in helping England secure their World Cup qualification in dominant fashion, insists that the team’s hunger and maturity have reached a new level. With his leadership role growing stronger under manager Thomas Tuchel, Rice believes the “Three Lions” are dreaming big — and are ready to do everything to bring the World Cup trophy home. Beyond the competition itself, Rice’s calm mentality and driven personality—often explored in our Lifestyle & Personal section—reveal the balance between ambition and grounded character that defines his rise.
England Display Unstoppable Power in World Cup Qualifiers
England’s World Cup qualifying campaign was flawless. A commanding 5–0 victory over Latvia in Riga not only secured their place in North America but also underlined their dominance under new coach Thomas Tuchel. A brace from Harry Kane, an own goal from Maksims Tonisevs, and strikes from Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze sealed their sixth win in six qualifying matches.
Even more impressively, the “Three Lions” kept six clean sheets and scored a total of 18 goals — a perfect record that reflected their renewed determination. Clearly, this team has rediscovered its confidence. With stars like Rice, Kane, and Gordon in top form, England are proving to be genuine contenders for next summer’s World Cup crown.
Rice Aims for World Cup Glory in 2026
For a player who has already experienced two major tournament finals, Rice’s confidence carries real weight. Having come so close to glory before, he is determined to make sure England finally lift the trophy they’ve craved for nearly six decades.
“We want to win,” he told the Daily Mail. “That might sound bold, but we are England and we’ve got world-class players all over the pitch. If we don’t think like that, I think it’s a weak mentality. We all want to win the World Cup; we all want that on our résumés. You look at so many of the best players in the world — they’ve won it, and you see what it means to them. There’s still a long way to go, and the key now is to build toward that moment.”
Now 26 years old and serving as England’s vice-captain, Rice has fully embraced his growing responsibility within the national setup.
“I feel like one of the senior players now,” he added. “It’s taken me a few years with England to reach this stage, but tonight was my 70th cap. It’s gone by so fast. I’m still only 26. I just need to keep going, keep playing well. I’m part of the leadership group, the lads ask for my input, I’m close to the younger players, and I get on well with the older ones too. It’s great to bridge that gap between both groups. I just want to do everything I can to help this team as we head toward next summer.”
Arteta and Tuchel Unleash “Rice 2.0”
At club level, Rice has become the heartbeat of Arsenal under Mikel Arteta, with the Gunners proudly sitting atop the Premier League table. Arteta has transformed Rice from a pure defensive midfielder into a dynamic “box-to-box” threat — a player who not only protects the backline but also influences play in the attacking third, contributing goals and assists while maintaining defensive solidity. Tuchel has also recognized Rice’s versatility and has used it perfectly for the England team.
“I can play as a No.6 or a No.8,” Rice said recently.
“I think now I’m more of a box-to-box No.8. The manager has tweaked my role a bit at Arsenal this year — giving me a bit more freedom to drop deeper but also to attack the box when possible. It’s the same with Thomas. I think it really suits me on the left side of midfield. Being able to drop back and become a complete midfielder is what I want to be, and I’m just really enjoying my football.”
“I’ve got two managers who make everything so clear — the game plan, my role, and positioning. Obviously, I’m the one who has to execute it, but when you have confidence in football, you sometimes feel unstoppable. I finished last season really strong, and maybe didn’t start one or two games this season as well as I’d like, but I’ve got my rhythm back. I feel strong, fit, and really confident in my game — and hopefully, the only way forward now is up, for both England and Arsenal.”
With his growing confidence and leadership role, Declan Rice believes England are on the rise — ready to compete fiercely for the upcoming World Cup title.
