Mikel Arteta Warns Fitness Woes Could Undermine The Gunners' Silverware Quest

Mikel Arteta has expressed concern that his squad's chase for titles this campaign is being jeopardized by a worrying cycle of injuries and a grueling schedule.

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Star player Declan Rice did not travel for the midweek clash to Belgium due to illness. In addition, attacker Leandro Trossard and defender William Saliba remain unavailable.

There was, however, better news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazilian striker registered to their Champions League squad. He replaces the injured youngster Max Dowman, who suffered an foot injury.

"Practice, no because we lack time to train. But clearly the fact that you are missing players, you are placing demands on other players more, there's a knock-on effect to that and it's a truly dangerous cycle."

Dowman's setback is the most recent in a extensive series of injuries for the club. Since the beginning of last season, they have suffered 95 injuries, the second-highest total in the Premier League.

Long-Term Absentees

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are unlikely to return until the new year.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz still rehabilitate from knee and "requires more time," as stated by the manager.

Arteta rejected the idea that practice methods were to blame, citing a lack of time for sessions. He highlighted the pressure on fit players, some of whom have featured over 150 matches in two seasons.

Recruitment Plans

Despite a significant summer investment exceeding £250 million, Arteta stated the team is unlikely looking to dip into the winter transfer market.

"At the moment we're just concentrating on getting the players back and hopefully it will be a question of a short time," he commented. "We know how important those weeks are going to be."

Looking Ahead

The squad experienced their initial defeat in 18 matches at the hands of Aston Villa, cutting their lead at the summit of the league to two points.

Attention now turns to the Champions League, where a sixth consecutive group-stage win would all but guarantee a knockout phase finish. Forward Gabriel Martinelli could create a club record by finding the net in a fifth consecutive Champions League match.

"The team is disappointed with the result, but we have to move forward," he stated. "This isn't like all is going wrong because we lost one game. So we remain united."