Declan Rice’s potential as England’s next captain is becoming increasingly apparent, and the upcoming World Cup offers the perfect platform for him to establish himself as the natural successor to Harry Kane.

After Arsenal’s defeat to Manchester City in April, Rice unexpectedly went viral. The England midfielder, visibly frustrated yet determined, was captured shouting, “It’s not done!” to his teammates. At that stage, Arsenal’s Premier League advantage had narrowed to just three points, with City holding a game in hand.

However, the story ended in Rice’s favour. Within weeks, Arsenal sealed the title as City faltered against Everton and Bournemouth while the Gunners won their final five matches. Rice played a pivotal role during that decisive stretch, delivering a series of commanding performances that secured Mikel Arteta’s side the Premier League crown.

Those final weeks showcased Rice’s leadership qualities in full. His talent has never been in doubt, but this season, he emerged as a genuine leader—one whose belief inspired his team to follow. When Rice declared that the title race wasn’t over, Arsenal believed him—and he proved right.

That very version of Rice could be England’s greatest asset this summer. Already recognised as an elite footballer, his Premier League triumph adds weight to his credentials. At 27, he stands on the brink of completing his footballing journey by achieving success with England.

Though not known for scoring or creating goals in abundance, Rice’s influence lies in his leadership and consistency. At the World Cup in North America, he has the chance to lead by example and set the tone for future tournaments—potentially as England’s next captain.

Natural leader

Thomas Tuchel recently revealed that Rice would act as England’s vice-captain for the World Cup, even though Jude Bellingham wore the armband in the second half of England’s 1-0 friendly victory over New Zealand.

“I was just thinking about it—whether it’s official or not,” Tuchel explained. “We had that discussion when Harry [Kane] wasn’t in camp with us. Was it against Wales? Declan was captain that day. That’s when I told him.”

Harry Kane remains England’s talismanic captain. Since being appointed before the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he has led through performance and professionalism rather than confrontation. He commands respect by being the team’s best player and a model of consistency.

Rice, on the other hand, possesses a more dynamic and assertive leadership style. Having started as a centre-back before evolving into a versatile midfielder, he has always displayed a desire to lead. Even as a schoolboy, he insisted on playing for his school team before Chelsea training, determined to inspire his peers.

Released by Chelsea as a teenager, Rice still carried confidence into West Ham’s dressing room. He made his debut in 2017, wore the armband in 2020, and was named club captain in 2022—before turning 24. By the end of his tenure at the London Stadium, Rice had become the heartbeat of the team, a midfielder who gave everything game after game.

Bursting with energy

That same drive defines Rice’s time at Arsenal. With Martin Ødegaard as captain and Bukayo Saka as vice-captain, Rice still earned the armband when both were unavailable. Mikel Arteta explained, “The players chose Declan because he’s earned that respect. The way he takes ownership in tough moments shows he’s a true leader and a top player.”

Rice’s durability has also been remarkable. During the 2025-26 season, he featured in 36 Premier League matches, starting 35 and racking up nearly 3,100 minutes—second only to David Raya among Arsenal players.

“I’m shattered, it’s non-stop,” Rice told TNT Sports in April. “We’re in every competition, playing every three days since October. It’s tough, but we find ways to win. Everyone asks where my energy comes from—I just get a second burst.”

As the season wore on, new signing Martin Zubimendi began to tire, but Rice continued to perform at a high level, often carrying the midfield alone. Even when Arsenal appeared conservative, Rice’s consistency and adaptability stood out.

“[Arteta] has turned me into a more all-round midfielder,” Rice said. “Like Steven Gerrard described himself—someone who can do a bit of everything. I can attack and defend when needed.”

‘One of the best in the world’

That all-round quality has earned Rice widespread admiration. England legends have frequently praised him as one of the finest midfielders of his generation.

“He’s going from strength to strength. I think he’s one of the best in the world,” said Steven Gerrard in March. “It was a brilliant move for him. I wish we [Liverpool] had signed him. David Moyes taught him the tactical side at West Ham, and now under Arteta, he’s reached another level.”

During Gerrard’s playing days, England had an abundance of midfielders, yet none combined Rice’s tactical intelligence, physical strength, and leadership. Now, under Tuchel, Rice acts as the central pillar of England’s midfield.

Well rounded

Off the pitch, Rice’s personality endears him to teammates. Known for his humour and light-hearted nature, videos of his playful antics have gone viral, from dance routines during his West Ham days to his “Rice Rice Baby” adverts. After West Ham’s Under-18s won the FA Youth Cup in 2023, he joined their celebrations, rapping alongside the young players while wearing a Prada jacket.

Yet on the pitch, he is serious, vocal, and commanding. He leads huddles, motivates teammates, and brings focus after setbacks. At Arsenal, he complements Ødegaard’s calm leadership with his vocal presence. For England, he provides the same balance alongside the more reserved Kane.

“He doesn’t always need the armband,” Arteta said. “When he speaks, people listen. He has that natural influence.”

Elite levels

Rice’s performances on the field continue to reach new heights. Although Bruno Fernandes was named Premier League Player of the Season, many believe Rice was equally, if not more, deserving of the honour.

In England’s second pre-tournament friendly against Costa Rica, Rice was outstanding. Returning after missing the win over New Zealand, he started alongside Bellingham and Elliot Anderson. He opened the scoring by finishing Anthony Gordon’s cross and dominated the midfield with energy and precision.

Such displays could prove vital this summer, giving England’s midfield the power and balance needed to challenge for the title.

Next man up

While Harry Kane remains central to England’s plans, the conversation about future leadership is inevitable. The Bayern Munich striker, now 33, may be entering his final World Cup, with Euro 2028 on home soil potentially marking the end of his international career.

Rice, five years younger, appears the natural heir. As England’s next generation of players emerges, he is perfectly positioned to guide them in one of football’s most demanding environments.

The Kane era as captain is gradually nearing its conclusion—and Declan Rice looks ready to carry the mantle when the time comes.