Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed that defenders Riccardo Calafiori and Oleksandr Zinchenko will miss tomorrow’s game due to injury, adding to the Gunners’ growing concerns as they prepare for a crucial fixture. While both players are sidelined, Arteta provided a positive update on midfielder Declan Rice, who is available but will undergo further assessment before a final decision is made regarding his involvement.
Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta revealed to the Evening Standard: “Calafiori and Zinchenko are not available for tomorrow. They are still recovering and won’t be able to make it. Declan Rice is fine, but we’ll decide later if he plays.”
The absence of Zinchenko and new signing Calafiori will come as a blow to Arsenal, particularly in the defensive areas. Zinchenko’s ability to operate as an inverted full-back has been a key part of Arteta’s tactical system, while Calafiori, who is still finding his feet following his arrival, has been seen as an important figure for the future. Without them, Arteta will need to explore alternative defensive options to ensure Arsenal maintain solidity at the back.
On a more encouraging note, Declan Rice’s fitness provides a much-needed boost for the Gunners. The England international has been a pivotal figure since his high-profile move from West Ham, offering stability in midfield and leadership across the pitch. Arteta’s cautious approach, however, suggests that the club is determined not to risk further injuries during this hectic schedule.
Arsenal fans will hope that Rice, if deemed fit to play, can provide the spark and balance the team needs as they look to secure crucial points. His presence on the field could be the difference-maker, especially with the absence of key defenders disrupting the team’s rhythm.
The Gunners are currently navigating a demanding period, and injuries to critical players have posed a challenge for Arteta and his squad. Tomorrow’s game will test Arsenal’s depth and adaptability, with Arteta likely to turn to squad players to step up in the absence of Zinchenko and Calafiori. Options such as Jakub Kiwior and Takehiro Tomiyasu could be called upon to fill the defensive void, while midfield backups may be on standby if Rice is rested.
This news comes at a vital stage of Arsenal’s campaign as they aim to keep pace with their rivals in the Premier League and other competitions. Arteta has consistently emphasized the importance of managing player workloads to avoid longer-term injuries, and tomorrow’s decisions will reflect that cautious strategy.
With Arsenal’s title ambitions in full focus, the absences of key players like Zinchenko and Calafiori present a test of both squad depth and tactical flexibility. However, Arteta remains confident that the team can adapt and perform in their absence.
As the Gunners prepare for tomorrow’s fixture, all eyes will be on Arteta’s lineup and whether Rice takes to the pitch. For Arsenal fans, the hope remains that their team can rise to the challenge despite the setbacks.