Declan Rice Confirmed as England Vice-Captain for World Cup by Thomas Tuchel

Thomas Tuchel has confirmed Declan Rice will serve as England’s vice-captain at the World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder continues his rise as one of the Three Lions’ key leaders alongside captain Harry Kane.
England step up preparations in the United States ahead of their opening group match against Croatia on June 17.

Declan Rice will serve as England’s vice-captain at this summer’s World Cup after Thomas Tuchel confirmed the Arsenal midfielder has become Harry Kane’s deputy ahead of the tournament.

The decision underlines Rice’s growing importance within the national team setup as England prepare to chase a first major trophy since 1966. With 72 caps and another outstanding season behind him, the Arsenal midfielder has established himself as one of the most influential figures in Tuchel’s squad.

Rice arrives at the World Cup on the back of a landmark campaign for Arsenal. He played a central role in their first Premier League title since 2004 and helped drive the club to the Champions League final, where they were ultimately beaten on penalties by Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest.

Tuchel revealed Rice’s leadership status after England’s friendly victory over New Zealand, explaining that the conversation had already taken place during a previous international camp.

“I think I would say Declan is my vice-captain,” Tuchel said.

Asked whether Rice had officially been informed of the role, the England manager added: “That is a good question. I was just thinking about it. Whether it is an official thing or not.

“But I think we had this talk when Harry was not in camp with us. We started with Ollie and I think Declan was captain. That was where I told him.”

Rice previously captained England during the October friendly against Wales when Kane was unavailable and Ollie Watkins led the attack.

His appointment reflects the trust Tuchel places in a player who has become one of England’s most consistent performers over recent years. While Kane remains the team’s undisputed captain, Rice’s influence both on and off the pitch has continued to grow.

England’s preparations have now intensified following the arrival of Rice and fellow Arsenal players Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze at the squad’s training base in Florida.

Tuchel’s side face Costa Rica in Orlando on Wednesday before a behind-closed-doors fixture against Miami FC. They will then travel to Kansas City ahead of their World Cup opener against Croatia on June 17.

Ghana and Panama complete England’s Group L schedule as Tuchel’s squad begin another attempt to end the country’s long wait for international success, with Rice now set to play a leading role both in midfield and within the team’s leadership group.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.