Should we believe Rice’s opinion about his injury?

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·5 December 2025

Should we believe Rice’s opinion about his injury?

Arsenal faced an anxious moment during their match against Brentford when Declan Rice was forced off after sustaining an injury. The midfielder has been a crucial presence in the team in recent weeks and has consistently delivered high-level performances. Considered by many at the club to be their most important player, he is undoubtedly the one individual they are most reluctant to lose. Arsenal possesses several top players in its current squad and continues to work hard to maximise the contributions of each of them, yet there is a belief that replacing Rice would be considerably more difficult than compensating for the absence of others.

Concerns Surround Rice’s Injury

Mikel Arteta has managed injuries well throughout the season, regularly finding effective solutions when players have been unavailable. However, Rice’s influence is such that many supporters reacted with real concern when he was unable to finish the match against Brentford. Fears quickly emerged that he might have suffered a serious issue, particularly with an important fixture against Aston Villa just days away. His departure from the pitch prompted speculation about the severity of the problem and whether Arsenal might be forced to face a formidable opponent without their key midfielder.

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The team’s recent performances have depended heavily on Rice’s ability to control the tempo, break up opposition play and provide stability in midfield. Losing him, even temporarily, would pose a significant challenge for a side aiming to maintain momentum during a demanding part of the season. Arsenal supporters, therefore, awaited updates with understandable apprehension as the club conducted further tests.

(Photo by Gabriel Kuchta/Getty Images)

Rice Offers a Brief Update

There was at least a small measure of reassurance when, upon leaving the game, Rice reportedly told a journalist in the mixed zone that he was “fine”. As reported by Metro Sport, this brief comment offered hope that the injury may not be as serious as initially feared. Even so, an official statement from the club is still awaited. Should Arsenal be required to face Aston Villa without Rice, it would represent one of their sternest tests so far, underscoring just how vital his presence has become in the heart of their midfield.

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