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's participation is uncertain due to an injury. Rice missed training on Tuesday, and manager Mikel Arteta has expressed concern over his availability for the crucial match. Arteta stated that a decision on Rice's fitness will be made on the morning of the game. Rice's potential absence would be a significant setback for the Gunners, who are already missing several key players, including Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori. Saka has been sidelined with an Achilles issue since his last appearance for England, but Arteta is hopeful that he will return to action soon. The Arsenal manager said, 'It's something he was carrying for a while. It was an Achilles issue. No, it's progression. Hopefully, it's a matter of days, not weeks.' With Piero Hincapie and Eberechi Eze returning to training, Arsenal may have to rely on alternative options to fill the void left by Rice's potential absence. Christian Norgaard, Kai Havertz, and Leandro Trossard are among the players who could step in, although each has their limitations. The uncertainty surrounding Rice's fitness adds to the pressure on Arsenal, who face a pivotal week with a Champions League quarter-final and a Premier League clash against Manchester City on the horizon.