Following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday, November 10, 2024, manager Mikel Arteta provided an update on the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
Both Saka and Rice were unable to finish the match due to injuries. Saka went down after a clash with Chelsea’s Marc Cucurella, while Rice was reported to be suffering from a broken toe. Arteta expressed concern about their condition, stating, “They don’t look very good to me. I don’t know if they are long-term injuries, but they couldn’t finish the game.”
With the upcoming international break, Arteta emphasized the importance of having a fully fit squad. He mentioned, “My main priority is to get my squad up to full fitness again, or as close as possible, and then I am sure that results will improve.” The absence of Saka and Rice could be a significant blow to Arsenal’s title challenge, given their importance to the team.
Both players are expected to be involved in England’s Nations League action, which will provide further insight into their fitness. Arteta noted, “If they stay with the Three Lions and the group, there is an expectation that they will be fully fit and raring to go.”
Arsenal will have two weeks without action before their next fixture against Nottingham Forest. Arteta hopes that Saka and Rice will be back and fully fit for the upcoming matches. He added, “We are having to change a lot of things and that affects our team. What I want in the international break is that we are fully fit and with that I am confident we will have a great season.
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