Rabat – England could be without one of their most important players, midfielder Declan Rice, for Saturday’s FIFA 2026 World Cup quarterfinal showdown against Norway after the Arsenal star missed two consecutive training sessions due to illness.
Reports indicate that the midfielder is recovering from a sickness bug that has worsened an existing neural issue affecting his hamstring and lower back, leaving Tuchel uncertain over his availability and searching for a strong replacement.
As Thomas Tuchel awaits a medical update on Rice’s health condition, England are also monitoring Marc Guehi’s recovery from a hamstring injury, while Reece James has resumed full training ahead of the knockout fixture.
Norway, on the other hand, are also dealing with illness concerns during their preparations, although captain Martin Ødegaard downplayed the issue, saying a few members of the camp had felt unwell because of climate changes and air conditioning.
Head coach Ståle Solbakken later dismissed reports of a virus in the camp, insisting that all players are fit and available for selection.
Tuchel will hope Rice is available to face Norway side led by Erling Haaland, whose seven goals have made him one of the strongest contenders in the race for the 2026 Golden Boot following a series of outstanding performances.
With a place in the World Cup semifinals at stake, and after a successful tournament in which Kane’s side reached the quarterfinals unbeaten in seven consecutive matches, the availability of one of England’s most influential midfielders could prove decisive.
