Mikel Arteta has delivered a mixed update on Arsenal's injury concerns ahead of their Premier League clash with Bournemouth this Saturday, with midfielder Declan Rice facing a late fitness test and defender Riccardo Calafiori definitively ruled out.
Key Duo Sidelined for Gunners
The news comes as Arsenal look to maintain their four-point lead at the summit of the Premier League, earned after a commanding 4-1 victory over Aston Villa in midweek and Manchester City's draw with Sunderland. However, that win was achieved without two key summer signings.
Declan Rice missed his first league game of the season against Villa after sustaining a knee injury during the 2-1 win against Brighton last weekend. His presence in the engine room has been pivotal for the league leaders this campaign.
Meanwhile, Riccardo Calafiori will now miss a third consecutive match. The Italian defender aggravated a previous issue during the warm-up before the Brighton game and was subsequently absent for the Villa fixture as well.
Arteta's Pre-Match Press Conference Verdict
Addressing the media ahead of the trip to the Vitality Stadium, Arteta confirmed the worst for Calafiori. "Calafiori will not recover in time for Saturday evening’s match," the Spaniard stated.
The situation regarding Rice remains more uncertain. When asked if a decision had been made on the England international's availability, Arteta replied, "Not yet, we have another session, let’s see how he comes today." This suggests Rice's participation will hinge on his response to a final training session.
In further injury news, Arteta confirmed that defender Cristhian Mosquera remains unfit as he recovers from an ankle injury picked up in last month's 2-0 win over Brentford. Youngster Max Dowman also continues his rehabilitation from a longer-term issue.
Squad Depth and January Transfer Window Hint
Arsenal's strengthened squad has been tested during the festive period, but the absence of such influential players is a blow. The return of Gabriel Magalhaes, who scored against Villa, has been a positive, solidifying the defensive partnership with William Saliba.
With the January transfer window now open, Arteta hinted that the club could be active to bolster options for the season's second half. "We are open to finding a solution that is short medium or long, but let’s see what happens and let’s see the news in the next few weeks," he said, leaving the door open for potential reinforcements.
Arsenal fans will now await the team news on Saturday with bated breath, hoping their talismanic midfielder Declan Rice can prove his fitness for a crucial Premier League encounter.
