Declan Rice was substituted during Arsenal’s 2-2 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, and Mikel Arteta is uncertain about his availability for the upcoming clash with Manchester City. The Gunners’ manager expressed his uncertainty regarding Declan Rice’s potential absence after the North London Derby ended in a 2-2 draw.
Despite his substantial £105 million price tag, Rice was unexpectedly taken off at halftime during the match. Since joining Arsenal from West Ham United in the summer, Rice has had an immediate impact, contributing to the team’s newfound energy, defensive structure in midfield, and leadership qualities. Many believed Rice could be the crucial addition to Arsenal’s Premier League aspirations. Additionally, he scored a last-minute winner against Manchester United earlier in the month.
If Rice faces an extended period on the sidelines, it could be advantageous for Manchester City in the title race. While already holding a five-point lead over Arsenal, the two teams are scheduled to meet on October 8. Jorginho replaced Rice at halftime and was at fault for Spurs’ second equalizer immediately after Arsenal had taken a 2-1 lead. Arteta commented post-match, stating that it was “strange” to see Rice forced off due to injury.
“He was experiencing some discomfort in his back and mentioned feeling uncomfortable during the first half,” Arteta explained. “Hopefully, it’s not a serious issue. It’s unusual to see a player like him having to be substituted, so we’ll have to wait and see.”
Arteta also expressed his disappointment at not securing all three points, despite leading twice, against their fierce rivals. Arsenal remains unbeaten this season, but the draw prevented them from climbing higher than fifth in the league standings.
“We are very disappointed not to have won all three points,” Arteta added. “Especially when we took the lead twice. The moments when we conceded the goals were particularly disappointing. There was an opportunity to make it 2-0 with Gabi, but we lacked composure on the ball in the final third.”