Mikel Arteta furnishes injury updates regarding Gabriel, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka.

Mikel Arteta furnishes injury updates regarding Gabriel, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka. Mikel Arteta, the Arsenal manager, has downplayed concerns regarding the fitness of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, while simultaneously offering a more precise timeline for Gabriel’s rehabilitation.

On Tuesday, Rice was the hero of a night to remember at the Emirates Stadium, scoring two spectacular free-kick goals in a well-deserved 3-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final. Bukayo Saka, who was in his first start in three-and-a-half months, secured both free kicks that Rice scored.

The penetrative winger remained on the pitch for 74 minutes before collapsing to the ground and signalling for a substitution. Rice subsequently limped off the field following medical intervention on the pitch. Arsenal has been beset by fitness concerns throughout the season; however, Arteta was emphatic that no additional names had been added to the list of absentees at this time. “Saka has a knock, and Rice has a minor foot problem,”

the Gunners manager informed reporters following the team’s successful performance. “Nevertheless, it does not appear to be a significant issue.” While recuperating from a hamstring injury, Gabriel, the Brazilian centre-back, was compelled to observe the proceedings from an executive box. The club verified that the defender required surgery, and numerous reports indicated that he would be unable to continue playing for the remainder of the season.

Gabriel’s availability for the commencement of the 2025/26 campaign in August was guaranteed by Arteta’s clarification that he would be suspended for four months.This season has necessitated a constant state of adaptation. We have experienced numerous occurrences. Arteta stated, “We have been without Gabriel, our most talented defender, for four months. However, Jakub Kiwior has stepped in and has continued to produce the same level of performance.”

“It is not a mere coincidence.” How they train, how they devote themselves, and how they support one another. I believe that it generates these situations [against Real Madrid]. Arsenal will play Brentford at home on Saturday, followed by the second leg of their quarterfinal in Madrid on the following Wednesday.