Declan Rice is not just a star for Arsenal; he is one of England’s most important players as well.
The midfielder was immense for the Gunners last season and was one of the biggest reasons why they won the Premier League title.
The problem, however, is that Rice played the second half of the season in pain at Arsenal, and he still hasn’t fully recovered.
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Thomas Tuchel confirmed after England’s win over Congo that Rice was in ‘terrible pain’. Yet, he played 91 minutes in two different positions.
Arsenal supporters now have a demand.
Arsenal fans demand a break for Declan Rice after Thomas Tuchel’s comments
“I asked him very late, and he said: ‘I can do it for the team, but I am in terrible pain,'” Tuchel said, as per ESPN.
“When Declan tells you that he is in terrible pain, then you know he cannot take it anymore, so he was grateful that we took him off. He just said after the game that it’s not an issue, he will recover, so there is no injury. He was just in pain, so I hope he is right. It’s more nerval pain.”
Arsenal fans have had enough and have urged Rice to take a break.
One supporter wrote: “Give him a break and send him back to London ASAP!”
Another posted: “It’s impossible. Please rest soon. Seriously, take a break.”
“Warrior spirit, but he needs to take care of himself,” said another.
Another Gooner tweeted: “Declan Rice needs to be rested. He needs the longest rest, right into the start of the new season. Even for people who hate Arsenal, why would you want to see a player put themselves through this much discomfort for England?! Footballers are not robots.”
“England can still beat Mexico without Rice. I hope they rest him,” said another.
Arsenal fans…What should Thomas Tuchel do with Declan Rice in the next two games?
Mikel Arteta has to give Declan Rice an extended break after the World Cup
Rice has been playing almost every game for club and country for years now, and everyone can see the toll that has taken on his body.
The same can be said about Bukayo Saka and William Saliba, who are both playing through pain for their countries as well.
Mikel Arteta will have more information about their fitness levels than we do, but he needs to think about giving all of them a long break.
Arsenal should only plan to have Rice, Saka and Saliba available in September. Doing that will give the trio enough time to recover and be at their best for the remainder of the campaign.
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