England coach Thomas Tuchel has spoken out about Declan Rice’s condition after the midfielder limped off the pitch during the England national team’s victory over the Croatia national team at the 2026 World Cup.
Coach Thomas Tuchel spoke out to reassure fans after Declan Rice encountered a fitness issue during the England national team’s 4-2 victory over the Croatia national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder was subbed off in the 72nd minute after showing signs of pain and limping off the field. This image immediately caused the Three Lions’ fans to worry, as Rice is one of the most important factors in Tuchel’s tactical system.
Before leaving the pitch, Rice had an impressive performance. He contributed one assist, created 4 dangerous chances for his teammates, and achieved a passing accuracy rate of up to 89%, greatly contributing to helping the England national team have a favorable start at the 2026 World Cup.
Sharing after the match, Tuchel said he decided to substitute Rice not because of a serious injury but purely as a precaution. “Declan had a few unusual ball losses and I noticed he was showing signs of discomfort. When asked, he pointed to his lower back and hamstring. I didn’t want to take any risks, so I decided to take him off to rest.”
The German tactician also affirmed that his player’s condition is not too concerning. “I hope it is not a big issue. After the match, Declan told me that everything is fine. We will continue to monitor and take care of him, but currently there is nothing to worry about.”
Rice himself also quickly soothed concerns by asserting that his physical condition is still fine. However, the 27-year-old midfielder revealed that this feeling of discomfort had appeared since the latter stages of the past season in an Arsenal shirt.
That information means the England national team’s coaching staff must be especially cautious in utilizing Rice in the upcoming matches. With the ambition to conquer their first World Cup championship since 1966, Tuchel certainly does not want to risk one of the most important pillars in the midfield.
Nevertheless, the initial signals are all quite positive, and England fans can feel somewhat reassured as Rice is highly likely to still be ready for the Three Lions’ continued journey at the 2026 World Cup.
