England will be without one of its most important midfielders for today’s UEFA Nations League showdown against Spain, as Declan Rice is not playing for England in the highly anticipated matchup.
Rice withdrew from the England squad ahead of the September international fixtures due to an injury issue, meaning he is unavailable for England vs Spain on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
Why Is Declan Rice Not Playing for England vs Spain?
Rice withdrew from the England squad while dealing with physical discomfort following a demanding stretch of matches for Arsenal.
The midfielder has reportedly been managing hamstring and lower-back discomfort, with the issue connected to a nerve problem that had previously affected his hamstring and back.
Rather than push Rice through another international window, the decision was made to give him additional recovery time.
His absence therefore appears to be primarily an injury-management decision rather than the result of a suspension or tactical decision by England manager Thomas Tuchel.
What Injury Does Declan Rice Have?
Rice has dealt with discomfort involving his hamstring and lower back.
The Arsenal midfielder had experienced a nerve-related hamstring problem that also affected his back, and the issue continued to require management following a heavy workload for both club and country.
Rice had also been heavily involved for Arsenal at the beginning of the 2026-27 season, increasing the importance of managing his fitness during the international break.
Is Declan Rice’s Injury Serious?
There has been no indication that Rice is expected to face a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
His withdrawal from the England squad provides him with an opportunity to rest and recover before Arsenal resume their domestic schedule.
Barring a setback, Rice could therefore return to action for Arsenal following the international break.
Who Could Replace Declan Rice Against Spain?
Rice’s absence creates an important decision for Tuchel in England’s midfield.
Without Rice’s combination of defensive coverage, ball progression and ability to control the middle of the pitch, England may need to adjust its midfield setup against a technically strong Spanish side.
Tuchel could turn to other midfield options in the squad to provide additional defensive stability and possession against Spain.
Declan Rice Is Not Playing England vs Spain
Rice will not play for England against Spain today after withdrawing from the squad because of an injury issue.
The Arsenal midfielder has been managing hamstring and lower-back discomfort, and the international window gives him an opportunity to recover rather than risk aggravating the problem.
England will now have to navigate one of its biggest UEFA Nations League fixtures without one of its regular midfield leaders.