Declan Rice Scolded by Mother Ahead of World Cup Kick-off

England international Declan Rice received a telling-off from his mother for a sunburn, but he believes he can bring the necessary energy for a strong performance for his country at the World Cup. Rice arrived at England's training camp in Florida on Saturday and immediately encountered the intense climate, with his official tournament photoshoot revealing sunburn on his head and arms. This didn't stop the 27-year-old midfielder from scoring the opening goal in a 3-0 friendly victory over Costa Rica in Orlando.

“I think everyone has seen those pictures, I was bright red in the photoshoot,” Rice said, as quoted by DPA, adding: “My mum gave me a telling-off. Honestly, from the first day we arrived, we just had to get used to this heat. Coming from England, it really hits you in the face.”

Declan Rice joined the national squad later due to his club team Arsenal's participation in the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. He stated that the ups and downs of a memorable season were mentally challenging, but he believes winning the Premier League has given him the confidence to help England win the 2026 World Cup.

“I feel really fit, really strong. I had a few issues during the season that I managed very well with the physios and the manager, so I’ve come here in a really good position. I feel really confident. I think winning the Premier League has allowed me to come with a sense of confidence and drive. Now that I’ve crossed that barrier with Arsenal, it’s given me the belief that we can come here and achieve great things. I’m in a really good place right now,” Rice further commented.

“The season was more mentally challenging than physically. Even though I’ve played so many games, the emotions you go through on a football pitch are extraordinary. It’s hard to think about the World Cup during the season because you have so many big games, but when you arrive here, that’s when it starts to hit you. I’m happy that I haven’t thought about it too much beforehand and now I’ve come with a fresh mind and ready,” the England international concluded.