Mikel Arteta Gives Fresh Updates on Declan Rice and William Saliba as Arsenal’s Injury Crisis Deepens

Mikel Arteta offers clarity on the Rice and Saliba situation while warning that Arsenal’s growing injury problems are entering a dangerous cycle.

Arsenal head into their Champions League clash with Club Brugge without Declan Rice and William Saliba, after Mikel Arteta confirmed both players will sit out as the team struggles with the league’s worst injury crisis.

Arsenal fans received relief when Arteta clarified that Declan Rice is not dealing with a new injury setback. The midfielder, who has been a driving force this season, misses the Brugge clash because of illness.

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Arteta explained that Rice felt “quite sick” after the previous match and stayed in London to recover. The issue is unrelated to his minor calf concern from earlier in the season, and he is expected back soon for Premier League action, including the weekend match against Wolves.

With Rice featuring heavily in both domestic and European games, his swift return will be vital for Arsenal’s midfield stability.

William Saliba Still Sidelined as Recovery Continues

William Saliba’s situation is more concerning. The French defender remains unavailable after suffering a knock in the victory over Bayern Munich. He has missed three straight league matches, leaving Arsenal short of defensive options.

Arteta confirmed Saliba will not travel to Belgium, adding frustration to a backline already without Gabriel Magalhães and Cristhian Mosquera. Saliba’s partnership with Gabriel has been the backbone of Arsenal’s defensive success, and his absence has forced Arteta to lean on Riccardo Calafiori, who must now be managed carefully to avoid further overload.

The manager remains hopeful, describing Saliba’s recovery as “a matter of days,” but no exact return date has been provided.

Injuries Mount as Arteta Expresses Deep Frustration

The issues do not end with Rice and Saliba. Leandro Trossard, who limped off against Aston Villa, has suffered another knock in a previously affected area. Arteta insisted the setback is not long-term but confirmed he will miss the Brugge fixture.

Teen prospect Max Dowman also faces weeks out after suffering ankle ligament damage. His injury forced a Champions League squad change, with Gabriel Jesus added to replace him. Arteta praised Jesus for his resilience in coming back from a long-term knee issue and pushing for reintegration into the team.

Arteta admitted growing frustration, mentioning that several players—including Kai Havertz—have been out for months. He also rejected claims of over-training, pointing instead to a vicious cycle: fewer available players mean more minutes for those still fit, which increases the risk of more injuries.

Despite the growing list of absentees, Arsenal remain top of the Premier League and boast a perfect Champions League group record with five wins from five. The trip to Belgium offers a chance to strengthen their grip on top spot.

Mikel Arteta believes the team can handle the challenge but stressed the importance of breaking the injury cycle to remain competitive deep into the season. With key players close to returning and squad rotation becoming essential, Arsenal’s resilience will be tested in the coming weeks.

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