Declan Rice lined up in the quarter-finals of the World Cup despite a
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read

Despite intense fatigue and difficult preparation marked by three days spent almost bedridden, Declan Rice started the quarter-final match of the 2026 World Cup against Norway. Thomas Tuchel, England coach, revealed the physical constraints encountered by several players due to the heat, explaining in particular the careful management of the Arsenal midfielder.
Why it matters
The presence of Declan Rice on the pitch, despite his physical difficulties, underlines his crucial importance for England in this 2026 FIFA World Cup. As Arsenal midfielder, he is a key element in the strategy of Thomas Tuchel, who must juggle the physical constraints of his players in conditions of extreme heat.
Context
Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal in 2023, has become a mainstay of the English national team. His experience and ability to play under pressure will be vital for England as they aim to progress in the tournament and prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
Key points
- Declan Rice lined up in the quarter-finals of the World Cup despite one.
- Despite intense fatigue and difficult preparation marked by three days spent almost bedridden, Declan Rice started the quarter-final match of the 2026 World Cup against Norway.
- Declan Rice remains central to England's plans.
Thomas Tuchel, England coach, revealed at a press conference after the match the difficulties encountered by several players, particularly in the face of the high ambient heat. “We had a few players who suffered from the heat,” he told the BBC. He cited in particular Konsa, victim of cramps and hamstring problems, but also Declan Rice who, according to him, spent “almost all the time in bed during the three days preceding the meeting”.
Faced with this situation, Tuchel chose not to take risks by not bringing Rice into play during the game to avoid having to make a premature change. The staff knew that the match could go into extra time, with potentially 120 minutes remaining, which could have compromised the options in terms of substitutions. For this strategic reason, Rice was substituted earlier in the match to allow for better tactical flexibility in the second half. Eberechi Eze thus came into play in his place.
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In detail about his incredible season, Rice's physical toughness is impressive. Since his arrival at Arsenal in 2023, he has played 51, 52 and 55 matches per season respectively with very high playing times: more than 4,000 minutes played in each exercise. This remarkable endurance also includes his numerous international selections with England, for which he has taken part in 14 matches since the start of the season.
Tuchel had already spared Rice during the last group match against Panama in order to preserve his strength. The upcoming semi-final encounter against Argentina will mark Rice's 70th appearance on the pitch this season, a mark of his status as a marathon runner of modern football.
This careful management of his physical condition is crucial for the player and the national team, as England continues its ambitious journey in this 2026 World Cup.
The rest
As the next stages of the tournament approach, managing Rice's fitness will be paramount for England. If fatigue issues persist, this could influence Tuchel's tactical decisions, particularly regarding substitutions and team formation in future matches.
Frequently asked questions
Why did Declan Rice have a complicated preparation before the quarter-final?
Declan Rice struggled with the heat, which led him to spend almost all of his time in bed during the three days leading up to the match.
Who confirmed the difficulties encountered by Declan Rice?
Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, confirmed the difficulties of several players, including Declan Rice, during a press conference after the match.
What were the consequences of Rice's complicated preparation for the match?
To avoid taking risks, Thomas Tuchel chose to replace Declan Rice earlier in the match to ensure better tactical flexibility in the second half.
Why was Declan Rice substituted during the match?
Declan Rice was replaced to avoid a premature change in the event of pr
olongations, which could have compromised the team's substitution options.
What role does Declan Rice play in the England team and at Arsenal?
Declan Rice is an undeniable pillar of the English selection and Arsenal, having played a high number of matches since his transfer in 2023.
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