Rio Ferdinand believes Declan Rice is about to take his game to another level entirely at this summer’s World Cup.
Speaking on That Peter Crouch Podcast, Ferdinand has predicted Rice to really step up in the coming weeks.
“Declan could stamp his authority on this World Cup. If England go deep in this tournament, he’s going to have a lot to say about it. And his influence will be massive,” he said.
“And I think if Declan continues the form he’s been in, then he elevates himself beyond even where he is right now after winning the league.”
🏆 Which Arsenal star will go the furthest at this summer’s World Cup?
Zubimendi and Spain? Saka and England? Saliba and France?
Rice has received praise for his deliveries in the 4-2 win over Croatia, particularly from set-pieces.
He set up Harry Kane’s second goal from an outswinging corner, and could have had another two assists if Nico O’Reilly had put his headed chances away.
Bukayo Saka also got an assist, coming on as a substitute to tee up Marcus Rashford on the counter for the fourth goal.
Ferdinand was also impressed by Noni Madueke’s performance, who started at right-wing while Thomas Tuchel manages Saka’s minutes carefully.
Rice came off after 72 minutes, appearing to be in some discomfort, though he later confirmed he was “all good” and expects to be available for England’s next fixture against Ghana.
Why England’s midfield could be the best at the World Cup
Alongside Jude Bellingham and Elliot Anderson, England possess arguably the strongest midfield of any nation at this tournament, certainly in terms of cohesion and balance.
Arsenal fans….you can sign Elliott Anderson but it will cost £140m, are YOU doing it or not?
Rice provides leadership, physicality, and deliveries from set pieces. Bellingham offers the moments of magic, like his strike for the third goal against Croatia. Anderson, who looks set to move to Arsenal’s title rivals Manchester City for a club-record fee, brings energy, dynamism, and technical quality. It is quite the trio.
Rice is already firmly established among the best midfielders in the world following his role in Arsenal’s title-winning season.
There is no bigger and better stage to prove that than the World Cup, and if Ferdinand’s prediction comes true, Rice could finish the tournament with his stock even higher.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
