Declan Rice’s contributions to England’s success at Euro 2024 have largely gone under the radar.

A quietly imposing presence, the combative midfielder remains one of the first names on Gareth Southgate’s team sheet for good reason.

The 25-year-old is one of the more experienced members of the England squad and brings defensive stability and calm authority to a team with plenty of attacking flair. While Spain has been the standout team throughout the Euros, those placing Euro 2024 bets on England this year will have been doing so, in part, because of the qualities Rice brings to the starting 11.

Rice’s role in midfield is pivotal for the team’s success. Arsenal fans know all about his consistency – in tackling, positioning, and passing. His presence not only allows the team’s offensive players to express themselves but also gives the defence confidence both in and out of position.

A stellar 2023-2024 for Rice

You only have to look at what he did at Arsenal in 2023-2024 to realise why he is so pivotal. When Arsenal spent £105m on the player last summer, some thought the price tag was excessive. However, Rice’s impressive performances have largely silenced those critics.

He has been pivotal for Arsenal, becoming a regular starter and achieving a passing accuracy score of over 90%, putting him third-best among the top-six midfielders. He has also been crucial in advancing the ball upfield, second only to City’s Rodri. His presence has made Arsenal more solid and added bite to a midfield severely lacking it a season ago, leading to more chances created and fewer goals conceded.

Rice’s contributions have grown throughout the season, with higher attacking statistics, including several goals and assists, surpassing his best stats for West Ham. His performances have been so influential that former players like Jamie Carragher and Alan Shearer now consider the £105m paid for him to be a bargain. They called his move a transformative signing for Arsenal.

Rice’s Unseen Qualities

England’s Euro odds put them among the favourites alongside Spain, Germany, and Belgium before the competition began. But against Switzerland in the quarter-finals, a 1-1 draw led to the lottery of a penalty shootout in which it was anyone’s game. However, England left-back Luke Shaw revealed how Rice introduced the players to some relaxation techniques to help with the pressure and ultimately triumph.

The Manchester United veteran, making his tournament debut after injury in the game, praised the Arsenal man for helping teammates stay focused with breathing techniques. “[Rice] was our speaker who was keeping everyone calm, telling everyone to do their breathing techniques and manifest it,” Shaw told reporters. He added that Rice’s encouragement was “needed”.

A Pivotal Role

Rice’s vital role in England’s Euro 2024 campaign cannot be overstated. His contributions, though often understated, provide a backbone of defensive stability and calm authority, allowing England’s offensive talents to shine.

Rice’s remarkable season with Arsenal has demonstrated his value, transforming perceptions and proving his worth as a £100m signing. His impressive consistency in tackling, positioning, and passing has fortified Arsenal’s midfield and made a significant impact on their performances.

Moreover, Rice’s unseen qualities, such as his leadership and composure under pressure, have been crucial for England. His introduction of relaxation techniques during tense moments showcases his maturity and influence off the pitch, further solidifying his importance to the squad.