Former England striker and national team captain Wayne Rooney has hailed Declan Rice as a future leader of the Three Lions, praising the Arsenal midfielder’s commanding display in the club’s recent victory over Everton.
Rooney, who captained England during his illustrious international career, said Rice possesses the qualities needed to wear the armband at the highest level. He highlighted the midfielder’s composure, tactical awareness, and ability to inspire teammates on the pitch.
“Declan Rice has everything you want in a captain,” Rooney remarked. “He leads by example, he’s vocal when needed, and he’s already showing maturity beyond his years.”
Rice, 26, joined Arsenal from West Ham United in a record-breaking transfer last summer and has quickly established himself as a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s side. His performance against Everton, where he controlled the midfield and drove his team forward, drew widespread praise from pundits and fans alike.
Rooney noted that Rice’s leadership qualities have been evident not only at club level but also with the England national team, where he has become a regular starter under Gareth Southgate. “He’s already one of the first names on the team sheet for England,” Rooney added. “It’s only a matter of time before he’s considered for the captaincy.”
England’s current captain, Harry Kane, continues to lead the side with distinction, but Rooney suggested that Rice could be the natural successor when the time comes for a change.
Arsenal supporters have also embraced Rice’s influence, with many pointing to his consistency and determination as vital to the club’s push for domestic and European success. His ability to balance defensive duties with attacking contributions has made him one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders.
Rice himself has remained humble about the praise, insisting that his focus is on improving his game and helping his team achieve its goals. “It’s always an honor to be recognized, but my job is to keep working hard,” he said after the Everton match.
Football analysts believe Rice’s trajectory mirrors that of other iconic England captains, combining technical skill with strong leadership. His potential appointment as captain would mark a new era for the national team, blending youthful energy with seasoned professionalism.
For now, Rice continues to shine in Arsenal colors, but Rooney’s endorsement has added weight to the growing belief that he could one day lead England on the international stage.
