Declan Rice assures he is fit for the next game after a physical scare.

Alarms were raised when Declan Rice, a key player for the England national team and an undisputed starter for Arsenal, was seen limping off the pitch during England’s victory over Croatia at the 2026 World Cup. Anxiety among fans and the coaching staff surged, fearing the worst for the midfielder, but Rice quickly came forward to reassure fans: he guarantees he will be available for the next challenge against Ghana.

The team managed by [Thomas Tuchel](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/portugal-tropeca-frente-a-rd-congo-e-inglaterra-domina-no-mundial/) kicked off their World Cup campaign with an impressive performance, securing a 4-2 victory, with [Harry Kane](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/harry-kane-iguala-recorde-de-lineker-e-lidera-inglaterra-na-vitoria-sobre-a-croacia/) standing out by scoring two goals. Declan Rice played in midfield alongside Eliott Anderson and showcased why he is considered one of the best midfielders in the game today, providing the assist for the second goal by the English forward. However, the celebration was marred when, in the 72nd minute, Rice requested to be substituted, making way for [Morgan Rogers](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/bellingham-destaca-motivacao-extra-apos-golo-decisivo-na-vitoria-sobre-a-croacia/) and returning to the bench showing clear signs of physical discomfort.


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The moment Rice limped off the pitch did not go unnoticed, both by the fans in attendance and by the ITV commentators, who highlighted the apparent worsening of his physical issue. Amid the growing speculation, the midfielder himself rushed to downplay the incident, assuring in a post-match interview that it was merely a precaution. “Everything is fine, everything is perfect,” Rice stated, further explaining: “It’s just something I’ve been managing, probably, in the second half of the season at Arsenal, some minor neural pains here and there. But yes, I’m great, I’m fine, it was just precautionary and I will be back against Ghana.” Rice’s words were spoken at the end of the match, in a clear attempt to calm the nerves and dispel doubts regarding his physical condition.

This clarification from Declan Rice is particularly relevant given the recent history of injuries within the England squad and the importance of the player in the team’s tactical balance. His presence in midfield is considered vital for the aspirations of the “Three Lions,” who are finally seeking to end six decades of drought in major international competitions. Rice’s potential absence could seriously jeopardize England’s chances in this group stage of the World Cup, especially against physically demanding teams like Ghana.

In addition to Rice, Marcus Rashford also raised concerns among fans after being seen holding his thigh following the final whistle, despite having come on and scored in the closing minutes. England manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to provide an update on the Manchester United forward during a press conference, heightening expectations regarding the physical management of the squad for the upcoming matches.

With the victory over Croatia, England immediately establishes itself as one of the favorites to advance to the next stage, but the doubts surrounding the physical condition of some of its key players necessitate close monitoring. The upcoming match against Ghana will be crucial to solidify their lead in the group and test the depth of the squad should there be any new injuries.

The next few days will be decisive in determining whether Rice fully recovers and if Rashford will be fit, but the confidence expressed by the Arsenal midfielder is a clear sign that the England team does not intend to slow down. In the event of a victory against Ghana, England could virtually secure their place in the round of 16, further boosting the morale of a team that, despite the scares, continues to nurture the dream of winning a world title that has eluded them for far too long.

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