Mikel Arteta is monitoring Declan Rice’s fitness ahead of the Bournemouth clash while confirming that defensive injuries and a dense January fixture list may force Arsenal into the transfer market.
Mikel Arteta faces a selection headache ahead of Arsenal’s trip to Bournemouth, with midfielder Declan Rice still a major doubt.
Rice missed the 4-1 victory over Aston Villa after suffering a knee injury against Brighton on December 27.
Arteta confirmed that the player’s availability depends on a reduction in swelling, stating, “We have another session today. Let’s see how he comes through and how that’s feeling.”
While Rice remains a possibility, Arteta officially ruled out defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Riccardo Calafiori.
The pair joins Max Dowman on the sidelines, leaving Arsenal with four first-team injuries as they enter a grueling January schedule.
Despite these setbacks, the manager defended the club’s recent fitness record, noting, “Looking back in the last three seasons, we have less days of injuries than before. So it’s how you look at it.”
The ongoing injury concerns have fueled speculation regarding January reinforcements.
Arsenal currently has nine matches scheduled across four competitions this month, prompting Arteta to keep his transfer options open.
Regarding potential signings, the manager remarked, “We are open to every option. If we can find a solution that is short, medium and long it’s always much better because it gives you stability.”