England’s World Cup assault on Argentina this Tuesday hinges on two Arsenal stars rediscovering their best form. Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are expected to start after nursing knocks, and their presence could decide whether the Three Lions finally neutralise Lionel Messi.

Why Rice and Saka are England’s secret weapon

England have dominated the final third under Thomas Tuchel in ways Gareth Southgate never managed. Still, they’ve yet to see a goal from an Arsenal player. Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane carry the scoring load, but Rice and Saka do the heavy lifting elsewhere. Rice tops creative charts while Saka tops assists—despite both operating at half strength.

Against Norway on 11 July 2026, England were sharper with Saka on the pitch. Rice, battling illness, couldn’t replicate his usual engine. Now both are expected to return for the Argentina tie, and England’s attacking rhythm depends on it.

Can England bottle Messi’s magic?

Argentina are a unit, but Messi remains their heartbeat. England’s game plan isn’t just to beat Argentina—it’s to outthink Messi at his own game. Rice and Saka won’t score the goals, but they’ll carve chances for Bellingham and Kane. If Rice is fully fit and Saka fresh, England gain a crucial edge.

Tuchel’s side has won five straight games, including a 2-1 win over Norway. That run shows depth beyond the usual stars. Rice and Saka, even at 50%, have shaped this campaign. Imagine them at 100%.

What happens next?

England’s next fixture is against Argentina at home on 15 July 2026. A win would send the Three Lions into the knockout rounds with momentum. A loss risks ending the dream. Rice and Saka’s fitness will dictate England’s ceiling—and their ability to give Messi a taste of his own medicine.