Declan Rice expressed optimism about England’s chances at Euro 2024, suggesting the team could achieve something extraordinary as they departed for Germany following a royal send-off on Monday. England, one of the tournament favorites, narrowly missed winning the European Championship three years ago at Wembley.
Rice emphasized the belief within the squad and their determination to make history by securing England’s first major trophy since the 1966 World Cup. “We want to make history,” said the Arsenal midfielder. “We say it all the time, but genuinely we have a group, a manager, that really believes.”
Highlighting the importance of hard work, unity, and support from fans, Rice added, “We have a confidence that we can go there and do something really special and, of course, with that comes hard work. That is going to be the main thing – the hard work as a team, unity, togetherness and with everyone behind us at home.”
The send-off at St George’s Park, England’s national football center, included flag-waving children and a visit from Prince William, the president of the Football Association, who wished the players luck and presented them with their shirts. “It’s a privilege, an honor and it feels very real now,” Rice said, noting the significance of their departure for the tournament.
England’s Euro 2024 campaign starts on Sunday against Serbia. Despite a 1-0 loss to Iceland in their final friendly, Rice remained positive about the team’s preparation during their 10-day training camp. “It’s obviously difficult when you finish the league,” Rice said. “Your body completely shuts down when you have a break, because we’re made to just play all the time.”
Rice acknowledged the challenge of restarting after a break but felt the training camp was beneficial. “Last week was really beneficial, to be honest with you, I think for everyone. We’ve got another full week now until the game, so we’ll be in a really good spot.”
Euro 2024 kicks off on Friday with Germany facing Scotland in Munich.
Source: ghmediahub
