Arteta reports Arsenal's Declan Rice knee injury as short-term only

Declan Rice is expected to return in the near future (Instagram/@arsenal).

JAKARTA - Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said Declan Rice's knee injury was only a short-term problem. The midfielder missed out on the 4-1 win against Aston Villa on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, early morning WIB.

Rice has been a key part of Arsenal's positive start to the Premier League season, but they won without him in a crucial top-flight clash against Aston Villa.

The game is so crucial considering the Gunners have to continue to widen the gap from their closest competitors, who are now Manchester City and Aston Villa just below them.

Despite being able to find a solution without Rice, Arteta still hopes the midfielder will be available in the near future.

"It depends, so the swelling has to really subside for him to have a chance to function. He hasn't been able to do that today."

"He is improving, but let's see what happens in the next few days. I think so (the injury is relatively mild)."

"I hope when the swelling goes down he can function, he will be fine. We also miss Riccy (Calafiori) today," said Arteta.

Arsenal started the match with a trio of midfielders Martin Odegaard, Martin Zubimendi, and Mikel Merino due to Rice's absence. Christian Norgaard then replaced Merino in the midfield trio.

The victory over Aston Villa gave Arsenal a five-point lead over Manchester City who are in second place in the English League table.

The advantage could be narrowed because The Citizens will only play the 19th week match on Friday, January 2, 2026, early morning WIB.

Meanwhile, Arsenal will visit Bournemouth's home on Sunday, January 4, 2026, early in the morning WIB, for the 20th round of the English League.