Declan Rice is set to make a surprising return to the starting lineup of the England national team in the decisive round of 16 match against Mexico, despite continuing to deal with a persistent injury. The Arsenal midfielder, a central figure in England's midfield, has been coping with a neurological issue affecting both his thigh tendon and lower back, but indications suggest he will be fit for the match on Sunday, scheduled for 18:00 local time (01:00 in mainland Portugal).
Rice was substituted in stoppage time during the hard-fought 2-1 victory against the Democratic Republic of the Congo in the round of 32, after being forced to play at right-back due to the wave of injuries affecting the England squad. Manager Thomas Tuchel explained, after the game, the sacrifice made by the player: “I asked him. He said: ‘I can do it for the team, but I’m in terrible pain.’ When Declan tells you he’s in terrible pain, you know he can’t take it anymore.” This brutal honesty from the England international reveals the seriousness of his physical issue, but it also highlights the commitment and spirit of sacrifice that has been crucial to England's journey in the tournament.
The potential recovery of Rice represents a breath of fresh air for Thomas Tuchel, at a time when doubts linger over Reece James's availability. Chelsea's right-back has missed the last two matches due to a thigh muscle injury and has yet to return to full training. This uncertainty further complicates the defensive options for the German manager, who has seen his backline suffer various setbacks. With the match against Mexico scheduled for Sunday—although it may be postponed due to adverse weather conditions—James's absence leaves England reliant on makeshift solutions.
Jarell Quansah, a right-back alternative, also missed the clash with the Congolese due to an ankle problem. The young defender has been intensifying his recovery, but there is still no confirmation regarding his fitness for inclusion in the matchday squad. This succession of defensive absences forces Tuchel to consider different tactical scenarios and player combinations, at a stage where any mistake could mean an early farewell to the World Cup dream.
The return of Rice to the starting eleven could be a decisive factor for the solidity of the English midfield and for the defense-to-attack transition, an aspect that has been one of the team's greatest strengths since the start of the competition. However, his physical condition, far from 100%, raises doubts about how long he will be able to last on the pitch, especially against a dynamic and aggressive Mexico in terms of pressing. If he is forced to leave the field again, Tuchel will have to resort to less experienced solutions, which could expose weaknesses against a dangerous opponent determined to cause an upset.
The impact of this news is enormous for England's aspirations in the World Cup. With the squad ravaged by injuries and in one of the most competitive matchups of the knockout stage, Rice's presence not only offers footballing quality but also leadership and calmness to the group. On the other hand, the persistence of the physical issue leaves a scenario of uncertainty and anxiety among fans and the coaching staff, who know that any relapse could jeopardize England's journey towards the long-coveted World Cup title.
In the coming days, all eyes will be on the clinical progress of Rice, the condition of Reece James, and the potential availability of Quansah. Should the trio miss the match, Tuchel will have to reinvent the defense at a critical point in the competition. Friday's press conference may provide additional clarifications, but for now, England's fate in the World Cup is at stake both on the pitch and in the physiotherapy rooms. The clash with Mexico promises strong emotions, with uncertainty surrounding key players adding even more suspense to the most awaited match of the weekend.
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