Mikel Arteta has provided a detailed update on the fitness of several Arsenal FC players ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg against Sporting CP, with several key names still in doubt for the decisive fixture.
The Gunners go into the return leg at the Emirates Stadium holding a narrow advantage after a hard-fought 1-0 win in Portugal, a result sealed by a late finish from Kai Havertz. Despite that advantage, preparations have been complicated by injury concerns affecting multiple first-team players.
Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta admitted that final decisions on squad selection would depend on late fitness assessments carried out just hours before kick-off.
“We have to wait tomorrow morning to see how a few of the boys are and make the right decision,” he said, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the squad.
One of the major concerns is the condition of Declan Rice, who has reportedly struggled with injury and was unable to take part in training ahead of the fixture. Arteta refused to provide a detailed diagnosis, insisting that the club would monitor his situation closely before making any final call.
“I don’t want to do that, we have to wait and see how he is tomorrow. He wasn’t able to train,” the Arsenal manager explained, keeping his cards close to his chest regarding the midfielder’s availability.
Attention has also turned to the possible return of several other key players, including Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori, all of whom have been important figures for Arsenal this season but have recently dealt with fitness setbacks.
When asked directly whether any of the quartet could be available for the second leg, Arteta remained cautious and non-committal.
“Maybe one of them, let’s see,” he said, suggesting that only a single player from the group may be fit enough to make the squad.
The uncertainty adds another layer of pressure to an already high-stakes European night, with Arsenal aiming to protect their first-leg advantage and secure progression to the next stage of the Champions League. Arteta is expected to make late decisions on several players, with final team selection likely to be influenced by last-minute medical assessments and recovery responses.
Despite the injury concerns, Arsenal remain focused on finishing the job at home, with Arteta expected to rely on squad depth if some of his key players are ruled out.
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