England midfielder Declan Rice is bracing for an emotional rollercoaster as the Three Lions chase their first World Cup title in six decades. "One minute you're going to be hated, one minute you're going to be loved," the Arsenal star told British Vogue, acknowledging the intense scrutiny that comes with representing England on the global stage.

Rice will be a pivotal figure under new manager Thomas Tuchel when the World Cup kicks off in June. The tournament opener against Croatia in Arlington, Texas on June 17 marks the beginning of England's quest to end a 60-year drought since their only major triumph in 1966. While Gareth Southgate's tenure brought improved performances, the ultimate prize has remained elusive—a burden this squad is determined to lift.

"The biggest challenge is dealing with everything that comes with being an England player," said Rice, who has earned 72 caps. "It's going to be the most-watched football event of the last four years. It always changes in football. You've just got to take it with a pinch of salt."

Reflecting on England's past struggles, Rice noted the contrast with previous generations. The so-called "golden generation" of Wayne Rooney, David Beckham, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Rio Ferdinand often fell short in major tournaments, with several admitting club rivalries hindered their chemistry on international duty. But Rice believes today's squad has a stronger bond.

"Whether it's through social media or in real life, you can see that there's a real connection between us," he explained. "You obviously hear about the older generation talking about how they didn't get on and how they couldn't connect and play together. But I think with us, that's why, over the last few years with England, we've done so well, because we're close on and off the pitch."

Rice emphasized that modern football has evolved beyond old rivalries: "We obviously all play against each other, but football's not like that anymore. A lot of people have best friends from opposite teams, spend a lot of time with players from opposite teams." This unity, he suggests, could be the key to finally bringing football home—and handling the inevitable highs and lows that come with wearing the Three Lions.