Arteta: Saka and Rice injuries do not look good

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta did not have a positive outlook when questioned about Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice’s respective injuries following their 1-1 draw at Chelsea on Sunday.

Saka was taken off in the 81st minute, having earlier received treatment on a problem with his leg, while Rice left the pitch 10 minutes earlier having been playing with a broken toe.

While their injuries represent a problem for Arteta, both Saka and Rice were included in the England squad to face Greece and the Republic of Ireland.

It could be a blow for England interim manager Lee Carsley, with Arteta doubtful they will be able to contribute.

“It doesn’t look good because for two players of that importance to say they want to come off is unusual,” Arteta told reporters after the match. “I don’t expect them to be fit [for the international break] because if not, they don’t come off.”

We’ve been forced into a substitution…

Saka
Jesus

1-1 (81) pic.twitter.com/mXLMkL9MgN

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) November 10, 2024

Saka has already missed two games for Arsenal this season, having picked up an injury during the previous international break. The Gunners have had to deal with numerous injuries to key players, including that of Martin Odegaard, who made his first start for the club since August on Sunday.

“What I’m praying for is that after the international break, we have the team fully physically equipped, that they are available and that they are fit because it’s been a nightmare for eight weeks,” he added.

“Doubt after doubt, issue after issue, not only with the ones that are not able to play but with the ones who are able to play.”