Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice will serve as Harry Kane's vice-captain for the upcoming World Cup, ahead of Jude Bellingham. The decision was revealed after England's friendly victory over New Zealand on Saturday night, where Kane started with the armband before Bellingham captained the side in the second half following eleven half-time substitutions.
Tuchel's Leadership Decision
Despite Bellingham's prominent role in the match, Tuchel has opted for Rice as the primary deputy to Kane. Rice, who joined the England camp late alongside Arsenal teammates Eberechi Eze, Bukayo Saka, and Noni Madueke after being granted extra rest following the Champions League final, is a key member of Tuchel's leadership group.
While the vice-captain role is not officially designated for the tournament, Tuchel made it clear after the New Zealand match that Rice would take over the armband if Kane is unavailable. “Whether it is an official thing or not, we had this talk when Harry was not in camp with us,” Tuchel explained. “When Harry missed a game against Wales in October, we started with Ollie Watkins and Declan was captain. That was where I told him.”
Bellingham's Role
Tuchel was quick to reassure that Bellingham remains a vital part of the squad despite this snub. “Bellingham is one of the starters, but there are 14, 15 potential starters,” the German coach elaborated. “There is a special group, a leadership group, and guys who finish matches for us, get the energy right, and set standards. These roles can change, but in my head, there are 15, 14 proper starters, and Jude is one of them.”
Bellingham, who wore the armband in the second half against New Zealand, will now focus on his on-field contributions as England prepare for the World Cup. The decision underscores Tuchel's trust in Rice's leadership qualities, as the Arsenal star has previously captained the side in Kane's absence.
