Declan Rice is going viral for what he said about Lionel Messi in press conference

In his pre-match press conference ahead of England's clash against Ghana, an inspired Declan Rice expressed his admiration for what the "incredible" Lionel Messi is doing at the World Cup.

It has been a memorable start to the summer for Messi, who is currently the tournament's leading scorer after netting five goals in Argentina's opening two group stage games against Algeria and Austria.

The 38-year-old scored a hat-trick in La Albiceleste's 3-0 win over Algeria on June 17 before bagging a brace against Ralf Rangnick's side on Monday (June 22).

“He is an extraordinary and sensational player, as well as one of the best in history," said Rangnick after the game, "It is obvious that Argentina is much more than just him, but he is the leader of a group of great players.”

As a result of his latest haul, Messi became the World Cup's all-time record goalscorer (18) after moving two clear of Germany striker Miroslav Klose.

Declan Rice goes viral after mentioning Lionel Messi in press conference

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of England's final group stage game against Ghana, Rice mentioned Messi's start to the World Cup campaign.

Asked for his take on the most important player at this summer's tournament, Rice was full of praise for England teammate Harry Kane, but he also paid a special tribute to the "incredible" Lionel Messi.

"For me, obviously, I'm going to say my captain, Harry Kane. It's inevitable what he does in an England shirt. We're very lucky to have him. He's our captain," Rice said.

"On the other hand, you also have to mention what Messi is doing at a World Cup. I think it's very special that we're witnessing this. What he's doing at his age is incredible."

Rice added: "Even as a neutral, as a football fan and lover of the game as well as a football player, it's incredible to watch him."

Declan Rice: "Lionel Messi, I think what we're witnessing right now is truly very special and what he's doing at this age is unbelievable.

"As a football fan, a football enthusiast and also as a footballer, watching him is an incredible pleasure." 🐐 pic.twitter.com/NyLKHxVgYq

— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) June 23, 2026

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"You'll be telling the kids when you're older that you got to play with Harry Kane"

Rice was also asked to describe his relationship with England captain Harry Kane.

"For me, he is one of those players where, when you're older, you'll be telling your kids that you got to play with Harry Kane. That's how good he is," said Rice.

"I'm very fortunate. One, he's our captain, but two, it's the way he leads by example every day and how he pushes himself in training. It's no surprise to me how good he is because of the goals he scores in training, what he's been doing at Bayern Munich, and what he's been doing for England."

The Arsenal midfielder added that it's been "an honour" to play with Kane.