Despite growing hope that the Arsenal midfielder can feature in Atlanta, British media reports suggest his recovery may still require a “medical miracle.”
Optimism is sweeping through the England camp regarding Declan Rice and his chances of recovering in time for the 2026 World Cup semi-final against Argentina. However, at this current moment, British media outlets have reported that his inclusion might still require what they termed a “medical miracle.”
The Arsenal midfielder, who suffered from a severe sickness bug in the build-up to Saturday’s quarter-final victory over Norway in Miami, was substituted at half-time during that match.
England’s German manager, Thomas Tuchel, later admitted that Rice had spent three days bedridden prior to the game, which England ultimately won 2-1 after extra time.
Injury and Illness Update: Rice’s Road to Recovery
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The Illness: Rice contracted a stomach virus in Mexico, where England defeated the co-hosts 3-2 in the Round of 16.
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Current Status: While he has not yet fully recovered, his condition has improved markedly over the past 48 hours.
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The Medical Decision: There is growing hope that he will be well enough to start the semi-final in Atlanta. However, given the severity of the illness, the England medical staff will make a late fitness test call.
Additional Injury Concerns for the Midfielder
In addition to his recent illness, Rice has been battling an ongoing neural problem for several months. The injury affects his lower back and hamstring, and is being constantly monitored by the national team’s medical department.
The midfielder, who boasts 78 international caps for England, has started every single World Cup match so far, with just one exception—missing the 2-0 group-stage win over Panama due to an injury flare-up.
