Arsenal faces a critical Premier League clash against Aston Villa with a fresh injury concern surrounding key midfielder Declan Rice. The Gunners, currently leading the table, will aim to extend their lead over Unai Emery's Villa, who sit just three points behind. A victory would create a significant six-point gap over their rivals.
Rice reportedly sustained a knee injury during Arsenal's recent 2-1 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion. Despite completing the full match, the injury is expected to sideline him for the crucial game against Villa. The club is hopeful that Rice's absence will be short-term and are taking precautions to avoid aggravating the injury. The extent of the injury is still being evaluated.
The potential loss of Rice is a significant blow for Arsenal. The 26-year-old has been a vital player this season, contributing two goals and three or four assists in 17 or 18 Premier League appearances. His versatility was on display against Brighton, where he filled in at right-back due to other injuries. Rice's absence will be felt both for his quality on the ball and his leadership on the pitch.
Arsenal has been dealing with a number of defensive injuries. However, there is some positive news as defender Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz are potentially returning to the squad. Ben White is reportedly recovering ahead of schedule from a hamstring injury, but he remains sidelined. Riccardo Calafiori and Cristhian Mosquera also remain unavailable.
Mikel Arteta has acknowledged the challenges posed by the mounting injuries. He highlighted the team's adaptability, recalling how he told Declan Rice he needed to play as a right winger and Rice responded positively. Arsenal will need to rely on their squad depth and tactical flexibility to overcome Rice's absence and secure a positive result against a strong Aston Villa side.
Arsenal are unbeaten at home this season. In the reverse fixture on December 6, Aston Villa defeated Arsenal 2-1 at Villa Park, adding extra motivation for the Gunners to seek revenge in this match. This game is crucial for both teams, as it is effectively a six-pointer in the race for the Premier League title.
