Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice started as England defeated the Netherlands 2-1 to go to the Euro 2024 final.

Rice has played an important role for Arsenal and England this season, both at the base of midfield and further forward.

Rice found his best form alongside Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo in the middle of the park in the victory over Switzerland, but despite England’s 2-1 victory over the Netherlands, Rice had a difficult night on an individual level, giving away the ball in the build-up to Xavi Simons’ opening goal.

Rice appeared far from his typical self at times, with Ronald Koeman’s side pressing hard on him to create errors, and Arsenal fans have expressed concern over him.

Arsenal fans express concern about Declan Rice after his difficult performance in England’s victory over the Netherlands.Taking to X, some Arsenal fans remarked that Rice was not at his best, which is cause for concern going into the final, since some believe he is not being put in his strongest midfield role.

“Not even gonna pretend here, Rice has been pretty bad,” one Arsenal fan wrote.

“Rice is a phenomenal player but Jesus Christ please play the simple pass,” somebody else said.

“Thank God that this Rice performance comes for England and not in Arsenal.”

However, some supporters pointed out that Rice’s troubles were caused by an imbalance in England’s squad, which hindered the Arsenal star’s performance against Slovakia.

“We all know Rice isn’t a 6, but the bigger issue is England’s left side is dead. “There is no outlet from the left, which is why the team is unbalanced,” one fan wrote.

“Rice is a box-to-box player; let him finally attack and end that 6 gimmick in which he is supposed to play from deep. “He’s not a 6,” another fan pointed out.

“Aside from the mistake, rice has been good. But you can’t make that error in that part of the pitch,” one supporter remarked.

Can Declan Rice flourish at the base of England’s midfield?

Rice was outstanding in the victory over Switzerland, and all signs pointed to England finding balance in midfield. However, this was one of Rice’s most challenging performances.

The 25-year-old was dispossessed near his own box, allowing Simons to score the opening goal, and it was a horrible moment for a man who had previously been reliable all season.

He grew into the game, but The Netherlands clearly targeted him, as he was dispossessed on multiple times; yet, given his background, he will not be anxious about the final against Spain, even if fans are.

Rice will face a tough midfield battle against Manchester City’s Rodri, and if Spain dominates possession, he will be charged with upsetting their outstanding midfield trio, which includes Dani Olmo, a long-term Mikel Arteta target.