Arsenal Suffer Blow as Declan Rice Picks Up Injury in Intense 2-2 Clash with Liverpool
Arsenal were dealt a fresh injury blow on Sunday as key midfielder Declan Rice missed the thrilling 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Anfield. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed before kick-off that Rice is struggling with a hip issue and was unable to train ahead of the crucial Premier League clash.
Rice had played the full 90 minutes during Arsenal’s midweek Champions League semi-final loss to PSG, but fans were surprised when his name was missing from the squad list against Liverpool. Speaking ahead of the match, Arteta admitted the injury “does not look good” and revealed the midfielder couldn’t even take part in training in the days leading up to the game.
This injury comes at a difficult time for the Gunners, who are battling to finish strong in the Premier League. With just two games left in the season, Arsenal host Newcastle next weekend in what could be a decisive match for securing second place. However, Rice’s availability remains uncertain, adding to Arteta’s growing list of injury concerns.
To fill the gap in midfield, Mikel Merino dropped back to partner Thomas Partey, while Leandro Trossard led the attack. Merino, who scored Arsenal’s second goal to level the match, later received a second yellow card and will now miss the Newcastle game due to suspension.
The situation worsened for Arsenal when Trossard limped off in the second half with what appeared to be a hamstring issue. Jorginho, another midfield option, was also absent due to ongoing injury problems. Although Jurrien Timber made the bench, Arteta confirmed the defender was not ready for game time.
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The 2-2 draw with Liverpool was a high-energy battle, but the growing list of unavailable players is a cause for concern. With Rice potentially out and both Merino and Jorginho unavailable, Arteta faces tough decisions heading into the penultimate game of the season.
Fans will now be hoping for positive news on Rice’s injury in the coming days, as Arsenal look to end the season on a high note. The coming week offers a rare break from midweek fixtures, giving the squad a chance to recover, though questions still remain around who will be fit and ready for the Newcastle clash.
