Mikel Arteta Provides Update on Declan Rice’s Injury Status

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has addressed concerns regarding Declan Rice’s knee injury, stating that it is a short-term issue. Rice missed the crucial top-of-the-table match against Aston Villa on Tuesday, which Arsenal won convincingly with a score of 4-1.

Arteta commented on Rice’s potential availability in the upcoming days, noting, “It depends on whether the swelling subsides enough for him to function. He hasn’t reached that point yet today, but he is improving. We will assess his situation over the next couple of days.”

Prior to the match, when asked if the injury was minor, Arteta expressed hope, saying, “I think so. I hope that once the swelling decreases, he will be able to function normally and that he will be fine. We also missed Riccy [Calafiori] today.”

In Rice’s absence, Arsenal fielded a midfield trio comprising Martin Ødegaard, Martín Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino, with Christian Nørgaard later substituting for Merino. Zubimendi contributed significantly to the match, scoring Arsenal’s second goal in the 52nd minute.

Currently, Arsenal holds a five-point lead over second-placed Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, although they have played one extra game. Their next fixture is an away match against Bournemouth on Saturday.