Gary Neville believes the pressure is on Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice to be ‘absolutely world-class’ at the World Cup for England to win the tournament.
Rice netted in the Three Lions’ final preparation match ahead of the World Cup as Thomas Tuchel’s team defeated Costa Rica 3-0.
🏆 Which Arsenal star will go the furthest at this summer’s World Cup?
Zubimendi and Spain? Saka and England? Saliba and France?
The Arsenal star was one of the best players in Europe last season, and now he needs to reach a similar level for the Three Lions.
Ahead of the tournament, Neville has been speaking about England’s chances and suggests that Rice is going to be key.
Gary Neville says Declan Rice must be ‘unbelievable’ for England
Gary Neville has warned England that Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson need to be ‘unbelievable’ for them to stand a chance of going all the way.
The former Manchester United defender has concerns about England’s defence, with Rice and Anderson set to have their work cut out.
Both players were incredible last season for Arsenal and Nottingham Forest, respectively, and they will need to quickly forge a solid partnership in the middle.
Speaking on The Overlap, Neville said: “I must admit I’m worried about England’s defence. For England to do well in this tournament, Elliot Anderson and Declan Rice are going to have to be absolutely world-class. They’re going to have to be unbelievable.
How much are these five Arsenal players really worth according to you?
“They’re good players, but they’re going to have to sit there pretty much, not in every game. England will be attacking some games, but when it gets to the knockout games, they’re going to have to be unbelievable in protecting that back four.”
Elliot Anderson proves why Arsenal’s Declan Rice move was so impressive
England have been blessed with potentially two of the most expensive midfielders of all time, with Anderson set to leave Forest for more than Rice.
Man City have had a £120 million bid rejected for the 23-year-old, which significantly eclipses the fee Arsenal paid for Rice back in 2023.
Mikel Arteta will be delighted that the Gunners managed to capture Rice when they did, as he is now worth significantly more than the £100 million they paid West Ham United.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
