Declan Rice Calls Riccardo Calafiori a Best Friend After 4-2 Win

After England's 4-2 win over Croatia at the 2026 World Cup, midfielder Declan Rice told Italian media that Riccardo Calafiori is one of his best friends and described Italy as an amazing country he respects, noting the defender is absent from the tournament while preparing for Arsenal’s 2026-27 title defence.

Rice started alongside Elliot Anderson and Jude Bellingham in England’s midfield. Thomas Tuchel guided the Three Lions to the 4-2 victory over a Croatia side that featured Luka Modric, Petar Sucic, Martin Baturina and Mario Pasalic.

In the post‑match interview with DAZN, Rice spoke to the Italian media about his friendship with Riccardo Calafiori. He noted that Calafiori is not at the World Cup and is instead preparing to defend Arsenal’s Premier League title in 2026‑27. Calafiori is an Italy international.

"One of my best friends at Arsenal, Calafiori, he’s obviously Italian. I love that guy, one of my best friends in football," Rice said. He added, "It’s an amazing country, I’ve been there a few times myself so I respect everyone there."

When the DAZN reporter joked about coping with the sun in the United States, Rice replied, "I’ve got a nice colour now. I’m not sunburned anymore. I was very burnt the first few days but now I’m good. I’m happy now."

A photo by Michael Regan shows Riccardo Calafiori celebrating his team’s first goal with Declan Rice during a Premier League match between Manchester United and Arsenal at Old Trafford on August 17, 2025. The image captures the two teammates sharing a moment on the pitch.