Arsenal will be without two key players for their next Champions League match.
Mikel Merino and Declan Rice are both suspended.
The news comes as a big blow for Mikel Arteta and his squad.
Both players picked up cards that now rule them out of the next game.
The Champions League is a tough competition.
Small moments can change everything at this level.
Losing two important midfield players makes the task even harder.
Arteta must now rethink his plans very carefully.
Arsenal: Why Is Declan Rice Suspended?
Declan Rice has been one of Arsenal’s most important players this season.
He plays with vigor, power, and composure under duress.
Rice initiates attacks from deep areas and shields the defense.
His absence will be felt across the whole pitch.
Rice’s suspension came after a late booking in the last match.
It was a moment of frustration in a tight game.
He tried to stop a counterattack and paid the price.
Those moments often decide European nights.
Mikel Merino Also Misses the Match
Mikel Merino’s suspension is also a major setback.
Arsenal’s play now has more control and balance thanks to the midfielder.
He helps the team stay compact and keeps the ball moving.
His experience in European football has been valuable.
Merino received his booking earlier in the game.
It came from a strong challenge in midfield.
The referee had little choice but to show a card.
Over two legs, those cards can add up quickly.
Arteta now faces a difficult selection problem.
The midfield is the heart of his system.
Without Rice and Merino, Arsenal loses stability and leadership.
The manager must trust his squad depth.
Players like Jorginho could step in.
He offers calm passing and game control.
However, he does not bring the same physical power as Rice.
Arteta may need to adjust his tactics.
Kai Havertz is another possible option in midfield.
He has played there before in big games.
His movement and height could help Arsenal in different ways.
But it would change the team’s usual shape.
Young players could also get a chance.
Arteta has never been afraid to trust youth.
However, Champions League nights are unforgiving.
Mistakes are often punished at this level. Impact on Arsenal’s Game Plan
The suspension also affects Arsenal’s confidence.
Rice and Merino are leaders on and off the pitch.
They help keep the team calm in tense moments.
Their voices will be missed during the game.
Fans on the suspensions
Arsenal fans will feel nervous about the situation.
Many see this match as a key moment in the season.
Progress in Europe remains a major goal for the club.
Every detail now matters even more.
The opposition will see this as an opportunity.
They will target Arsenal’s midfield weakness.
Winning control in the center could decide the match.
Arteta must prepare his team for that challenge.
Despite the setback, Arsenal still has quality players.
The squad is stronger than in previous seasons.
Arteta often speaks about togetherness and belief.
This will be a true test of those words.
Suspensions are part of football at this level.
Managing discipline is a lesson every team must learn.
Arsenal will hope to avoid similar problems in future games.
Experience in Europe often comes the hard way.
For now, the focus is on solutions.
Arteta will study training sessions closely.
He will look for balance, control, and energy.
The goal remains the same despite the absences.
Arsenal still believe they can compete.
Champions League nights demand courage and focus.
Missing Rice and Merino hurts, but the season continues.
Arsenal’s European journey will be determined by how they react.
As featured on GoonerNews.com