Declan Rice shares emotional message after England’s World Cup rollercoaster as Jack Grealish leads stars paying tribute

DECLAN RICE has reflected on an “unforgettable” few weeks at the World Cup – despite England’s semi-final heartbreak. Arsenal star Rice, 27, capped off his North American campaign by captaining the Three Lions in the absence of rested Harry Kane for the third place play-off. Declan Rice led the England team out against France Credit: Getty Rice opened the scoring and celebrated with Bukayo Saka during the 6-4 win Credit: AP Rice also scored the first goal – a beauty into the bottom corner – in the bonkers 6-4 win over France. He posted a series of snaps on Instagram to draw a line under the tournament, including one of him leading the team out for the clash with Les Bleus, celebrating with Gunners team-mate Bukayo Saka, and picking up his bronze medal. Sign up for the Football newsletter Thank you! Alongside it, he wrote: “An unforgettable 7 weeks comes to an end. “To captain & score my first World Cup goal last night was a really proud moment for me. READ MORE ON THE WORLD CUP “Highest place finish at a World Cup since 1966 is a great achievement but we still want more & I know we can deliver more. “This group of players are very special and it’s been incredible to share these moments with them over the course of the tournament. “A massive thank you to our fans who have been amazing throughout, we as players cannot thank you enough for your support! “We hope you made countless memories that will stick with you forever. The journey continues.” Most read in Sport WORLD CUP 2026 FREE BETS AND SIGN UP OFFERS Jack Grealish, who was not selected in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup squad, replied on Instagram Credit: Getty England were left heartbroken after their late collapse against Argentina Credit: Getty WORLD CUP FINAL LIVE: ALL THE LATEST FROM SPAIN VS ARGENTINA Jack Grealish, who missed out on the squad, was among those in the replies as he commented three heart emojis and two clapping hands. Ezri Konsa also chimed in with a heart emoji. Marc Guehi also put a heart, with Dean Henderson commenting a fire emoji. Rice arrived at the World Cup less than 100 per cent after a taxing season with Arsenal but featured in all bar one of England‘s games, including the agonising 2-1 loss to Argentina that ruined his chances of clinching the trophy. Comment now