NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 2: Declan Rice of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United FC and Arsenal FC at St James’ Park on November 2, 2024 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

Arsenal has been dealt a significant blow ahead of their Champions League clash with Inter Milan, as Declan Rice has been ruled out of the match due to injury. The England international missed training on Tuesday and did not travel with the squad to Italy.

Rice, who has been a virtual ever-present for Arsenal this season, played the full 90 minutes in Arsenal’s recent 1-0 defeat to Newcastle. His absence is a major setback for manager Mikel Arteta, who will now have to find a replacement for the crucial fixture.

READ MORE

Speaking the press in Italy this evening, Mikel Arteta said, “Declan unfortunately picked an injury against Newcastle. He was able to finish and he wasn’t feeling good the last few days.

“We’ll have to assess him on Thursday and see if he’s ready for Chelsea. It’s a problem on his foot. He wasn’t comfortable to put his boots on.

MORE ARSENAL STORIES

“So at the moment he’s not fit

ArsenalTalks Newsletter

The latest Arsenal news, straight to your inbox.

Get the biggest transfer stories, match reports and breaking Arsenal updates delivered directly to you.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time.

The Gunners will need to regroup quickly as they face a tough challenge against Inter Milan at San Siro. The match is set to be a crucial one in Arsenal’s Champions League campaign, and the team will need to show resilience and adaptability in Rice’s absence.