Declan Rice has openly supported Thomas Tuchel's candid and no-nonsense approach since taking charge of the England team, saying that players are ready to accept harsh criticism if it helps the team achieve success in the World Cup.
The Arsenal midfielder expressed his belief that England's players would welcome a "kick up the a***" if it motivates them to perform at their best. Rice, who described himself as "too nice", is eager to engage in more "uncomfortable conversations" on the pitch, particularly when things aren't going well.
Tuchel has already emphasised the need for more leadership within the squad and has been unafraid to publicly criticise players, a tactic that the midfielder fully supports. He explained that this approach, while tough, is necessary for the team's growth.
Rice said: "You can't be comfortable at this level. I'd much rather the manager tell me directly than hide things. It gives me that push I need. Tuchel knows we're here to win the World Cup, and to do that, we need to push each other and make sure no one gets too comfortable."
He also highlighted that, despite England's historically friendly squad dynamic, the team needs to embrace more honest, constructive criticism to improve. "We've been too nice as friends, but now it's about having those difficult conversations when things aren't going well," he added.
Rice pointed to Manchester City's success under Pep Guardiola, where multiple leaders in the dressing room played a key role in the team's success. While Tuchel has not re-established a formal leadership group, the 26-year-old is eager to step up and contribute to a more vocal and united squad.
"We need more leaders, and I want to be one of them," Rice concluded. "It's not about taking things personally, but about pushing each other to be better."