Arsenal faces a growing injury crisis ahead of their Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sporting CP, as Declan Rice was absent from training on April 14, 2026.
Why it matters: Rice's absence raises serious concerns for Arsenal as they prepare for two decisive matches this week. The Gunners need to secure their position in the Champions League and maintain their Premier League lead.
Rice was a surprise omission from training after playing the full 90 minutes in Arsenal's recent 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth.
His absence, alongside other key players, could significantly impact Arsenal's performance in the upcoming fixtures.
Arsenal currently holds a narrow 1-0 lead over Sporting CP from the first leg, making Rice's availability even more pressing.
The team is also gearing up for a potentially title-deciding match against Manchester City on April 19, 2026.
Driving the news: The alarm was raised when Rice did not participate in the open training session at London Colney. His absence is particularly concerning as Arsenal looks to solidify their Champions League semi-final spot.
Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that they would assess Rice's condition the following morning, indicating that he may still be available for the match.
Arteta emphasized the importance of Rice, stating, "He has played a lot of games and that is part of the issue," hinting at potential fatigue or injury.
Alongside Rice, Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Jurriën Timber, and Riccardo Calafiori were also missing from training, compounding Arsenal's injury woes.
State of play: Arsenal's current situation is precarious as they prepare for a week that could define their season.
After losing to Bournemouth, Arsenal's lead at the top of the Premier League table was reduced from nine points to six, intensifying the pressure on the squad.
Rice's absence from training follows a recent withdrawal from England's international squad due to fitness concerns, which raises questions about his readiness for the upcoming matches.
As Arsenal prepares for the Sporting match, they must also strategize for the Premier League clash against Manchester City, billed as a 'title decider.'
The big picture: Arsenal's injury situation is reflective of the challenges faced by teams competing on multiple fronts.
With Rice potentially sidelined, Arsenal lacks depth in midfield, as Mikel Merino is also out with a long-term injury.
Christian Norgaard and Kai Havertz are among the options to fill Rice's role, but their effectiveness remains uncertain.
Arteta's side has struggled recently, losing three of their last four matches across all competitions, raising doubts about their form heading into key fixtures.
What they're saying: Arteta's comments reveal the gravity of the situation and the need for a strong response from his players.
"We have to wait until tomorrow morning to see how a few of the boys are and I will make the right decision with them," Arteta said, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding his squad.
On Saka's situation, Arteta noted, "It was something he was carrying for a long time. It was an Achilles issue," highlighting the need for careful management of player fitness.
Arteta acknowledged the importance of fan support, stating, "If the atmosphere, the fans, the support, the energy in the stadium is the best in the world, we have a much greater chance."
By the numbers: Arsenal's injury list is concerning as they head into a challenging stretch.
With Rice, Saka, Ødegaard, Timber, and Calafiori all absent from training, Arsenal's depth will be tested significantly.
Arsenal leads Sporting CP 1-0 on aggregate from the first leg, with Kai Havertz scoring the decisive goal.
They have not won the Premier League title for 22 years, adding pressure to their current campaign.
What's next: Arsenal's immediate focus is on the Champions League clash against Sporting CP.
The second leg is scheduled for April 15, 2026, at the Emirates Stadium, where Arsenal hopes to secure a place in the semi-finals.
Following that, they face Manchester City at the Etihad on April 19, 2026, in a match that could determine the Premier League title race.
Arteta is expected to provide updates on player fitness in a press conference on April 14, 2026, which could offer insight into the team's preparations.