Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta shared updates on the fitness of several key players ahead of Sunday’s Premier League match against Chelsea.
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Declan Rice, Arsenal’s record signing, missed the Champions League match against Inter Milan midweek amid reports of a toe injury, though he may attempt to play through it.
Arteta admitted there’s uncertainty around Rice’s availability, saying, “I have to be vague on that one; it’s not clear if he’ll be fit for the weekend.” Rice has yet to return to training, adding to Arsenal’s concerns as they seek to regain form following recent setbacks.
Arteta showed some optimism about Kai Havertz and Mikel Merino, who were both subbed early in the Champions League fixture. Arteta explained, “Kai’s was a nasty cut, and Mikel wasn’t feeling well, so we substituted him at halftime.”
Arsenal received a boost with captain Martin Odegaard’s return from an ankle injury, making a late-game appearance on Wednesday. Arteta hinted that Odegaard’s comeback could significantly impact the team’s performance, noting, “Having a player like Martin helps because of his impact over the last few years.”
While Arteta is cautious about rushing him back as a starter, Odegaard’s fitness adds depth to an injury-hit squad.
Arsenal has been challenged by an influx of injuries, forcing the team to adapt consistently. “We have to adapt because of the injuries,” Arteta noted, mentioning how the squad has adjusted to missing key players.
With Odegaard’s return and a chance for Rice, Havertz, and Merino to make a swift recovery, Arteta is hopeful for an improved result against Chelsea this weekend.
