Aaron Cresswell, the former West Ham left-back, describes Declan Rice as a remarkable athlete, noting his extraordinary endurance. “He can play six or seven games a week,” Cresswell reflects on his former teammate’s stamina, adding, “God knows how many he’s played in the last few years.”
Since the 2020-21 season, Rice has competed in a staggering 360 matches. His contributions have been crucial for West Ham during their deep dives into European competitions in 2022 and 2023, making him an integral part of Gareth Southgate’s England squad, and now a key player for Arsenal in the Premier League and Champions League since his transfer three years ago.
Despite his impressive track record, fatigue was evident during Rice’s 63rd appearance of the 2025-26 season in England’s tumultuous 4-2 victory over Croatia in their World Cup opener on Wednesday. The 27-year-old exhibited signs of exhaustion, with the team’s midfield structure faltering. There was excessive space between Rice and Elliot Anderson in a concerning first half, while Rice often dropped too deep, allowing Croatia’s Luka Modric to exploit gaps.
Thomas Tuchel will need to address these tactical issues ahead of England’s upcoming match against Ghana on Tuesday. However, the substitution of Rice in the 72nd minute, while England held a precarious 3-2 lead, raised eyebrows. It is unusual for Rice to be withdrawn in such a critical moment, prompting fears that the vice-captain may be nearing his limits just when his team needs him the most.
Tuchel reported that Rice experienced discomfort in his lower back and upper hamstring, describing the substitution as a precaution. Rice himself expressed optimism about being available for the Ghana match. Nevertheless, England must proceed with caution.
Concerns loom over what might happen if Rice’s condition deteriorates. The midfield struggled with Rice far from his best—Tuchel diplomatically noted that “Declan had some unusual ball losses,” England cannot afford to be without him; his absence has historically led to poor performances, and the squad lacks a comparable replacement.
Kobbie Mainoo, while talented, is young and lacks Rice’s physical presence and set-piece expertise. Jordan Henderson, at 36, was deemed unsuitable for a high-tempo game against Croatia. Tuchel finds himself with limited options.
Following Rice’s exit, Tuchel’s initial response was to push Jude Bellingham back into Rice’s role, a move that nearly resulted in a Croatian equalizer and lasted only eight minutes. It was then that England appeared to find a workable solution: introducing Djed Spence for Bellingham allowed Reece James to shift from right-back into a midfield role he has excelled in at Chelsea over the past 18 months.
James could serve as a viable option in midfield should Rice’s playing time need to be carefully managed. The Chelsea captain has experience in that position from his loan at Wigan during the 2018-19 season. Although primarily a right-back or right-wingback, James was reconfigured to play in midfield under Enzo Maresca, a decision that paid off when Chelsea triumphed over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final last year.
Initially skeptical, Tuchel has since recognized James’s value in midfield. “Reece James can play in the 6 because he does on a high level for Chelsea,” Tuchel stated when announcing his World Cup squad, explaining the omission of Adam Wharton and Alex Scott.
Tuchel’s selections reflect his emphasis on versatility. If James transitions out of defense, Spence, Ezri Konsa, and Jarell Quansah can fill in at right-back. Another option could involve Konsa acting as a third center-back alongside John Stones and Marc Guéhi, allowing Nico O’Reilly to advance from left-back.
However, concerns about James’s fitness remain. He has a history of hamstring injuries, the latest in March, which sidelined him for nearly two months, necessitating careful management by Chelsea.
This situation complicates matters for England. With Tino Livramento sidelined due to a calf injury, Tuchel has had to replace the Newcastle full-back with Trevoh Chalobah. Many squad members have faced a demanding season. While James is the preferred choice at right-back, he cannot shoulder the midfield burden if Rice is not fit.
As the World Cup looms, Tuchel is preoccupied with fitness issues. The decision to arrive early in Florida for a pre-tournament training camp aimed to enhance conditioning. Rice’s late arrival, following his participation in the Champions League final, reflects his tendency to push his limits. The question remains: will there be consequences for this relentless pursuit?
If England progresses to the final and Rice does not receive a break, he could end the season with 70 appearances across club and country. The expectations are immense, and Tuchel must have contingency plans in place.
