Rice's Fitness Doubt Casts Shadow Over Arsenal's Champions

„We have to wait until tomorrow,”Arteta

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed uncertainty over Declan Rice's availability for Thursday's crucial Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sporting CP at Emirates Stadium. The midfielder missed Tuesday's open training session, raising fresh concerns about his fitness ahead of the tie.

The England international emerged as an injury worry just days before the decisive encounter. Arteta told reporters the club would need to assess Rice's condition carefully before making any decisions about his participation in the match.

„We have to wait until tomorrow,”Arteta stated regarding Rice's status. The manager adopted a cautious tone, emphasizing that the player's health would be the primary consideration in any selection decision.

Arsenal heads into the second leg holding a slender advantage after the first meeting ended in a 2-2 draw in Lisbon. The Gunners will be desperate to secure their place in the Champions League semi-finals, but could do so without one of their key midfielders.

Rice has been instrumental in Arsenal's Champions League campaign this season

Rice has been instrumental in Arsenal's Champions League campaign this season. His potential absence would represent a significant blow to the team's hopes of progressing past the Portuguese side.

The north London club confirmed they would conduct further assessments on the midfielder on Wednesday before announcing their squad for the match. Team medical staff are working to determine whether Rice will be fit to feature.

Arteta's careful approach reflects the high stakes involved in the quarter-final tie. With a place in the last four of Europe's elite club competition at stake, the Arsenal manager must balance the need for his best available squad against the risk of aggravating any injury.