Graeme Souness blasts Declan Rice as 'limited' after England’s World Cup exit

Graeme Souness tears into Declan Rice after England’s World Cup heartbreak

Declan Rice came under fire from Graeme Souness on 16 Jul 2026 after England’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the World Cup semi-finals on 13 Jul 2026. The Liverpool legend labelled the Arsenal midfielder ‘limited’ and claimed Rice ‘won’t get any better’ at 27.

What did Souness say about Declan Rice?

Souness savaged Rice and Newcastle’s Elliot Anderson in a brutal assessment on Sports Uncensored. ‘Declan won’t get any better, he’s looking as good as he’ll get at 27,’ the former midfielder said. ‘I don’t see enough football in the two of them. I see them as players who’ll recycle the ball but I don’t see them hurting people.’

He contrasted Rice with Rodri, Spain’s midfield maestro, who orchestrated play with incisive passing. ‘If you wanted the polar opposite to those two, the night before you see arguably the best one in the world at that, and has been for a couple of years, in Rodri,’ Souness added. ‘He’s a proper midfield player.’

Why the criticism now?

Rice, 27, started all but one of England’s games in the tournament but battled fitness issues. He played through hamstring, calf and back problems in the group stage, then caught an illness before the quarter-final against Norway. He managed just the first half before being subbed off.

England led Argentina until the 85th minute but conceded two late goals in a 2-1 defeat. Rice was taken off by Thomas Tuchel while still in front, with fitness lingering as a talking point. Souness seized on the moment to question Rice’s impact.

What’s next for Declan Rice?

Rice returns to Arsenal with the World Cup hangover still fresh. The Gunners will need him firing in the Premier League as they chase a first title in 20 years. Souness suggested Rice might fit better as a centre-half, a role Arsenal have explored with William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães.

The midfielder’s commitment and athleticism drew praise from Souness. ‘There’s nothing to dislike about him in terms of his attitude, athleticism or commitment,’ he said. But the verdict on his ceiling remains harsh: ‘limited’.

Fan reaction splits over Souness’s verdict

The debate flared up fast. Some backed Souness’s tough love, arguing Rice lacks the dynamism of elite midfielders. Others pointed to his tournament record: 27 years old, 6 World Cup appearances, a semi-final berth.

Souness’s comments landed as England regroup for the Nations League and Euro 2028 qualifiers. Rice’s next move-whether in midfield or defence-will shape Arsenal’s season and England’s rebuild under Gareth Southgate.