Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is optimistic that injuries sustained by Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhaes during the 5-0 victory over Crystal Palace are not serious. Rice, who was replaced by Jorginho due to a hamstring issue, later clarified that it was just ‘tightness.’ Gabriel was substituted for Jakub Kiwior following a minor knock, with Arteta emphasizing the importance of avoiding risks.
The Gunners’ next match is eight days away, providing a sufficient recovery period. On a positive note, Emile Smith Rowe made a brief return from injury, showcasing promising skills in midfield. Despite initial concerns about Oleksandr Zinchenko’s absence from training photos, he returned to the starting lineup.
Here is the latest injury update for Arsenal players:
Declan Rice:
Arteta stated that Rice felt tightness towards the end of the Palace game, describing it as a precautionary measure.
Expected return date: Nottingham Forest (A) – January 30.
Gabriel Magalhaes:
Gabriel suffered a knock in a late-game collision, prompting a substitution for precautionary reasons.
Expected return date: Nottingham Forest (A) – January 30.
Takehiro Tomiyasu:
Tomiyasu has recovered from a calf problem but is currently participating in the Asian Cup with Japan. His return date is uncertain.
Arteta mentioned a calf injury and an extended absence for Tomiyasu.
Thomas Partey:
Partey withdrew from the Ghana squad at the Africa Cup of Nations due to a thigh problem.
Expected return date: Nottingham Forest (A) – January 30.
Fabio Vieira:
Vieira is undergoing rehabilitation after surgery on a groin injury, with an expected return in mid-to-late January 2024.
Jurrien Timber:
Timber suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury early in the season and remains sidelined.
Arteta expressed the significance of Timber’s absence and highlighted the qualities he brought to the team.
Expected return date: Unknown.
Arteta emphasized the need for caution and expressed disappointment over the setbacks, particularly the long-term absence of Timber. The upcoming break in the schedule offers a respite for Arsenal players to recover and regroup for their next fixture.