Arsenal Faces Uncertainty Over Declan Rice's Availability for Champions League Quarter-Final

Arsenal's preparations for their crucial Champions League quarter-final against Sporting CP have been dealt a blow, as midfielder Declan Rice is facing a fitness test after missing training on Tuesday. Manager Mikel Arteta remains hopeful that Rice will be available for the decisive match, but the midfielder's potential absence would be a significant setback for the team. Arsenal are already without several key players, including Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori, and Rice's injury would further exacerbate the problem. Arteta acknowledged that Rice's heavy workload this season may be a contributing factor to his current fitness concerns. The Gunners are also gearing up for a critical Premier League encounter against Manchester City on Sunday, which could have significant implications for their title aspirations. With several players still sidelined, Arteta will be forced to explore alternative options to fill the void left by Rice's potential absence, including Christian Norgaard, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard.