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 Declan Rice is uncertain to play due to an injury. Rice, a crucial player for the Gunners, missed training on Tuesday, and manager Mikel Arteta is waiting to see how he recovers before making a decision. The midfielder's potential absence would be a significant setback for Arsenal, especially with key players like Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori already sidelined. Arteta expressed concern over Rice's workload, stating that he has played many games, which might be contributing to his current issue. The Gunners are also facing a tough week, with a Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday, and Arteta is hopeful that Rice will do everything to be fit for the Champions League match. Arsenal's injury woes have raised questions about their midfield options, with Christian Norgaard being the only available alternative as a sitting midfielder. Other players like Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard, and Myles Lewis-Skelly could potentially fill the gap, but it's not an ideal situation for Arteta's team.