Arsenal have been dealt a fresh injury concern after Declan Rice was forced off late in their 2-0 win over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium. The midfielder went down in the final ten minutes, gesturing to medical staff that he was suffering from a calf problem. The extent of the issue is not yet known.
Rice's potential absence would be a significant blow for Mikel Arteta, given the midfielder's importance to the team. The 26-year-old has made 20 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring two goals and providing six assists. His set-piece delivery, energy, and leadership have been key to Arsenal's performances.
The injury adds to Arteta's growing list of absentees, with Gabriel Magalhaes, William Saliba, Leandro Trossard, and Kai Havertz already sidelined. This comes shortly after the returns of Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, and Viktor Gyokeres from injury.
Arteta recently reflected on last season's injury problems, saying: 'We learn and we were able to put together a squad that is much more reliable and has more options. We learned from the past that we have to use players in different positions.'
Arsenal face Aston Villa next in the Premier League, followed by a Champions League clash against Club Brugge. The Gunners will hope Rice's injury is not serious as they aim to maintain their title challenge.
