Arteta hopeful over Declan Rice fitness but warns Arsenal face ‘complicated’ defensive setback
Mikel Arteta believes Declan Rice has a strong chance of returning for Arsenal’s crucial Premier League clash with Aston Villa, despite the midfielder being forced off late in the midweek win over Brentford.
While Rice’s situation appears encouraging, the Arsenal manager admitted the injury suffered by centre-back Cristhian Mosquera is “more complicated” and could stretch his already depleted defensive options.
Rice was substituted in the closing minutes of Wednesday night’s victory at the Emirates, sparking concerns given his importance to Arsenal’s title push. However, speaking at Friday’s press conference, Arteta insisted there is optimism the England international will be available.
“We’ll have another training session this afternoon and every hour matters,” Arteta said. “We need to assess everyone’s availability before deciding who travels. Declan is progressing well and we’re hopeful.”
The same cannot be said for Mosquera, who left the pitch inside the first half after pulling up unchallenged. Arteta admitted that the young defender’s issue may require more time to resolve.
“That’s the one that looks more difficult,” he added. “We have another test today and then we’ll have a clearer picture, but it’s definitely more complicated.”
The Gunners were already short at centre-back against Brentford, with both Gabriel Magalhães and William Saliba unavailable. Gabriel and Kai Havertz are still several days away from returning, while Saliba and Leandro Trossard are expected to rejoin the squad sooner.
Despite the injury concerns, Arsenal enters the weekend with momentum. Their victory over Brentford restored a five-point advantage at the top of the table, with Manchester City temporarily narrowing the gap earlier in the week through a dramatic 5–4 win at Fulham.
A win at Villa Park on Saturday lunchtime would push Arsenal eight points clear before City host Sunderland later in the day. But Arteta expects an intense test against Unai Emery’s in-form Villa side, who sit third after an exhilarating 4–3 win at Brighton.
“Every match is vital,” Arteta said. “We prepare for what we know will be a demanding game. Performing well, understanding what the match requires, and fulfilling our potential those things matter most.”
Arsenal will once again lean on their depth as they look to maintain control of the title race heading into the festive period, but the extent of their defensive injuries may force Arteta into further tactical adjustments.
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