Declan Rice: Rooney Backs Him To Become England Captain After Kane

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Wayne Rooney believes Declan Rice is best placed to become England captain when Harry Kane steps aside. Rooney watched Rice guide Arsenal to a 1-0 win over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium, where the midfielder controlled play and again supported Arsenal’s push at the top of domestic and European competitions.

Rooney, who captained England during a long international career, sees Rice as the natural successor. The former striker highlighted Rice’s influence on and off the ball, arguing that the midfielder already shows leadership qualities suited to the pressure and demands of the England armband.

Rooney praised Rice’s display against Everton, stressing how many different roles Rice handled during the match. Across the game, Rice registered 116 touches, 87 accurate passes, 10 possessions won and three interceptions, while winning seven of nine duels and two of three tackles in a complete midfield performance.

For me, he's the one who's probably waiting for Harry to hang up his boots at some point, said Rooney on BBC Sport's The Wayne Rooney Show. He was all over the pitch [against Everton]. His decision-makingwhen to pass it, where to pass it, what foot to pass it to, his detail on his passit was a pleasure to watch. He was absolutely incredible. He was splitting centre-backs, taking the ball off [Arsenal's] centre-backs, acting as a third centre-back, then next minute he's in the box, trying to score a goal. Sometimes, some of the stuff he does is a bit underrated. He's the right one to take over [Kane] for me, because [of] his drive, his personality. Everyone seems to love him, who knows him, who's close to him. He's irreplaceable for England.

Rice’s club numbers this season further support Rooney’s view of future England captain potential. The 26-year-old has seven direct goal contributions in all competitions, with two goals and five assists, while Arsenal currently lead both the Premier League and the Champions League underlining Rice’s importance in high-level matches.

Internationally, Rice has already worn the England armband, which strengthens the argument about long-term Declan Rice England captain prospects. Rice has 72 senior caps and has captained England twice, in a 2-2 draw with Belgium in March 2024 and a 3-0 win over Wales in October 2025.

With Kane still central for England, Rooney’s comments place Rice as the likely next leader in the squad’s hierarchy. Rice’s consistent club form, recent captaincy experience and praised character mean the discussion around a future Declan Rice England captain role is likely to continue as England plan beyond Kane’s era.