Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed another significant injury setback following the goalless draw against Everton at the Emirates Stadium in the Premier League.

The Gunners, now winless in two consecutive league games, dominated possession but couldn’t break through Everton’s resilient defense.

Arteta surprised many with his substitutions after the hour mark, taking off Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. However, Rice’s removal wasn’t tactical. Arteta explained that the England international had been managing a minor niggle over the past week, which forced him to make the substitution.

“Declan was feeling something and had to come off. He’s had a little niggle for a week, and we had no choice but to sub him,” Arteta stated.

Arsenal’s season has been plagued by injuries. Martin Odegaard has already missed games, costing the team valuable points earlier in the campaign. Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Magalhaes have been unavailable at times, while Ben White is sidelined long-term after surgery. Riccardo Calafiori also continues to recover from a groin injury.

Rice, who previously missed games with a broken toe, now seems to be dealing with a muscular issue. Arteta is cautious with the 25-year-old and may rest him for the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace on Wednesday. However, Rice could return for Arsenal’s league clash against Palace next weekend.

With a chance to reach the last four, Arteta, known for rotating his Carabao Cup lineup, may field a stronger side for this critical fixture.