Arsenal's quest to maintain their position at the Premier League summit faces a fresh challenge this weekend, with a significant injury list threatening to disrupt Mikel Arteta's plans for the trip to the south coast. The Gunners, who thrashed Aston Villa in their last outing, travel to face AFC Bournemouth on Saturday, but will do so with several key players either ruled out or facing late fitness tests.
Bournemouth's Injury Concerns Ahead of Arsenal Visit
Andoni Iraola's Cherries, who have slipped to 15th after a disappointing run, have their own selection headaches. Ryan Christie is a fresh doubt due to a knee problem, while midfielder Lewis Cook is also questionable with a neck injury. The club's longer-term absentees are more severe.
Winger Ben Doak is out until at least February with a serious hamstring injury that may require surgery. Youngster Veljko Milosavljevic is also sidelined until next month with a knee capsule issue, though he avoided major ligament damage. US international Tyler Adams remains out with a torn MCL, targeting a late February return, and Matai Akinmboni continues his recovery from a muscle injury.
Arsenal's Squad Depth Tested by Fresh Blows
For the league leaders, the major concern surrounds midfield lynchpin Declan Rice, who is considered a doubt. Manager Mikel Arteta stated the swelling around his issue needs to subside quickly for him to feature. Defender Riccardo Calafiori is another doubt after feeling discomfort in the warm-up before the Villa match.
The news is more definitive for two other Gunners. Youngster Max Dowman is set for weeks on the sidelines after picking up an injury last weekend, while defender Cristhian Mosquera's absence has been extended beyond initial expectations, with Arteta confirming he will also miss several weeks.
Implications for the Premier League Title Race
This mounting injury list presents a genuine test of Arsenal's squad depth and resilience as they enter a critical period in the season. While Bournemouth's form has been poor, an away trip with a potentially depleted side is a classic Premier League banana skin. Arteta will be desperate for Rice, in particular, to recover in time to provide stability in midfield. The ability of other squad members to step up could prove pivotal in ensuring Arsenal protect their precious lead at the top of the table.
