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 a training absence on Tuesday. Manager Mikel Arteta expressed hope that Rice would recover in time, but acknowledged the midfielder's importance to the team. The Gunners are already missing several key players, including Jurrien Timber, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard, and Riccardo Calafiori, and Arteta admitted that Rice's potential absence would be a significant setback. With a crucial Premier League clash against Manchester City looming on Sunday, Arsenal's injury woes have come at an inopportune time. Arteta remains optimistic about Rice's chances of playing, but the midfielder's injury, which appeared to be a limp during the second half against Bournemouth, has raised concerns. The club is also awaiting the return of Saka, who has been sidelined with an Achilles issue, with Arteta hoping he will be back in 'days not weeks.' As Arsenal navigates a critical period in their season, the uncertainty surrounding Rice's availability has added to the team's challenges.