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

Arsenal's preparations for their Champions League quarter-final against Sporting CP have been dealt a blow, as midfielder Declan Rice is uncertain for the clash due to an injury. Rice missed training on Tuesday, and while manager Mikel Arteta is hopeful he can recover in time, the midfielder's absence would be a significant setback for the Gunners. Arsenal are already without several key players, including Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori, and Rice's potential absence would further weaken their squad. Arteta has admitted that Rice's injury is 'part of the issue' after the player landed awkwardly during the second half against Bournemouth. With a crucial Premier League match against Manchester City also looming, Arsenal's injury woes have come at a critical juncture in their season. The Gunners lead Sporting CP 1-0 on aggregate, but they cannot afford to take their opponents lightly, especially with Rice's availability in doubt. Arteta will have to make some tough decisions regarding his team selection, with Christian Norgaard, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard potential options to fill the void left by Rice's possible absence.