Mikel Arteta has delivered a cautious update on Declan Rice ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Bournemouth. The midfielder remains a doubt as swelling in his knee has yet to fully subside.
Rice missed the midweek match against Aston Villa. The issue stems from a knock he picked up during the game against Brighton. Arsenal are now monitoring the situation closely.
The timing is significant for Arsenal. A win on Saturday would take them seven points clear of Manchester City, who play on Sunday.
However, Arteta made it clear that Rice’s availability is uncertain. When asked whether the swelling had gone down, the manager said during his press conference:
“We have another session today, let’s see how he comes today and how that’s feeling, but it was too early, that game for him.”
Arteta also dismissed suggestions that Rice should have been substituted earlier against Brighton. He was firm in his response.
“No, no, no,” he said. “He managed to do it [finish the game]. That’s normal sometimes. You get a hit, and throughout the game you are able with adrenaline, and because you are warm, you are able to sustain that.
“And then the body reacts, and it reacted probably more than we expected, unfortunately. And that’s where we are.”
The update confirmed that Declan Rice remains under assessment ahead of the trip south.
Arteta also provided news on other absentees. Riccardo Calafiori will not return after missing the Villa match. His issue remains unclear.
Cristhian Mosquera is also still out. He is not expected back until the middle of the month.
Speaking on both players, Mikel Arteta said: “They are both out.”
For now, Arsenal will wait on Rice’s response in training before making a final call ahead of the clash with Bournemouth.
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