Declan Rice: England’s New Captain Honors David Beckham’s Legacy with more than just Spectacular Free-Kicks

Declan Rice’s long-range free-kick execution during the match against the reigning European champions unmistakably drew parallels to David Beckham.

The £105million investment by Arsenal had meant that Rice’s set-piece abilities were mostly hidden during the first 405 matches of his professional career.

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Yet in his 406th appearance, Rice showcased incredible skills by executing a one-two during a Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid, surpassing even the legendary Goldenballs.

He should strive to imitate Beckham, particularly regarding the England captaincy.

The notion that modern football lacks ‘leaders’ and ‘communicators’ is often overstated, and Rice’s influence is undoubtedly overlooked.

Thomas Tuchel was confident that England needed more leadership, which led him to controversially select the 34-year-old Jordan Henderson in his first squad as manager last month.

But why revert to Henderson when Rice is available?

Defining Rice’s optimal position on the pitch has frequently proven to be a challenge.

He began his career at West Ham as a young center-back, has mostly played as a midfield anchor for England, yet exhibits a box-to-box, Bryan Robson ‘Captain Marvel’ style for Arsenal.

This versatility was evident on Tuesday as the 15-time European champions were dismantled.

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One thing is clear: Rice possesses the innate qualities of a leader.

During his tenure at West Ham, he absorbed invaluable leadership lessons from Mark Noble, one of the Premier League’s most respected captains.

‘Give me your right foot please’ – Injured Arsenal star pleads with Declan Rice in the dressing room after stunning goals

At just 26, Rice embodies the spirit, teamwork, and exemplary leadership required of a top captain.

He is one of the most likable personalities in the sport, earning respect from both club and country.

The former Irishman speaks candidly and humorously in interviews, serving as a role model and support within the dressing room.

What better showcase of leadership than persuading three teammates to let him take a 30-yard free-kick—and then executing it flawlessly, curling it around the wall not once, but twice within a mere 12 minutes?

Rice should aim to emulate Beckham in various aspects, starting with the captaincy of England.

Rice presents a stronger case for the captaincy than Beckham, who led England 59 times, or the current enduring captain Harry Kane.

Henderson was regarded as the true captain of England when his form justified his inclusion, evident during the behind-closed-doors period when his engagement with teammates was clear.

Kane is a leader through his on-field performances but lacks vocal leadership on the pitch and in the dressing room.

By contrast, Rice fits the bill perfectly.

When Gareth Southgate appointed him as the captain for his 50th England cap against Belgium last year, Rice spoke with such clarity and passion that it seemed only a matter of time before he succeeded Kane as permanent captain.

He lifted West Ham’s long-sought major trophy in the 2023 Conference League final against Fiorentina—his last match before his ‘half-price’ transfer to the Emirates.

At Arsenal, Rice is the leading contender for the captain’s armband.

Martin Odegaard, who has led under Mikel Arteta for three seasons, is more introverted and currently struggling with form, which may make a reduced pressure environment beneficial.

The narrative that modern football lacks ‘leaders’ and ‘communicators’ is often exaggerated and it certainly overlooks Rice’s impact.

Even during that defining win over his former club Real, Odegaard found it difficult to make a meaningful impact.

The Norwegian’s ability to maintain rhythm and instinct for the perfect pass have diminished since an early-season injury.

Despite being the same age, Rice is the one who continually inspires Arsenal, both through his words and actions.

Before the first of those remarkable free-kicks, Odegaard and Saka both deferred to Rice during an extended discussion.

Here’s a player who had never scored a direct free-kick in 405 previous matches, now persuading his teammates that he could score one from 30 yards against Real Madrid.

If that isn’t the essence of leadership, then what is?