Mansion Sports – Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a concerning update regarding the condition of midfielder Declan Rice, who was forced off the pitch in the 79th minute during the Gunners’ 2-1 victory over West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium. 

Rice appeared to be in discomfort due to a back problem and was immediately substituted, with Arsenal’s medical staff set to conduct further assessments to determine the severity of his injury.

In that match, Arsenal showcased their dominance and secured a crucial win that propelled them to the top of the Premier League table after seven rounds of fixtures. 

The Gunners’ goals came from Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka — one in each half — ensuring a full three points for Arteta’s side.

Rice Scores Against His Former Club

From the opening whistle, Arsenal maintained full control of the game, dictating possession and tempo throughout. 

Their dominance was reflected in nearly double the amount of ball possession compared to the visitors, demonstrating just how commanding the Gunners were on home soil.

Declan Rice broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, pouncing on a rebound from Eberechi Eze’s effort that was parried by West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola. 

The goal carried special significance, as it came against Rice’s former club — one he represented for seven years before making the move to North London.

Arsenal continued to press aggressively, and their persistence paid off midway through the second half when Bukayo Saka converted a penalty after Jurrien Timber was brought down in the box by El Hadji Malick Diouf. 

The strike not only doubled Arsenal’s advantage but also marked a personal milestone for Saka — his 100th goal involvement in the Premier League (combining goals and assists) across 200 appearances.

Injuries to Rice and Ødegaard Raise Alarms for Arsenal

Despite the morale-boosting victory, Arsenal’s celebrations were tempered by injury concerns to two key players. 

Captain Martin Ødegaard was forced off in the first half following a knee collision with an opposing player, while Declan Rice requested to be substituted in the second half after feeling discomfort in his lower back — an uncommon issue for the usually durable midfielder.

In his post-match interview, Mikel Arteta expressed his concern over the situation:

“He’s not in a good state because he asked to come off himself — and that’s very unusual for Declan. He felt pain in his back and couldn’t continue, so we’ll need to run further tests to determine exactly what’s wrong,” said Arteta.

Addressing Ødegaard’s condition, the Arsenal manager added:

“He took a knock on the knee and immediately felt uncomfortable. We’ve spoken to him and, unfortunately, it doesn’t look positive at the moment. He’s already wearing a knee brace, and we’re waiting on the doctor’s evaluation, but the situation doesn’t look encouraging.”

Arteta acknowledged that Ødegaard’s recurring injury issues since the start of the season have disrupted the team’s balance and rhythm.

“We need to find solutions, but losing your captain is always a huge blow — he gives us something unique in attack,” he added.

A Milestone Victory in Arteta’s 300th Match in Charge

Beyond the injury concerns, the victory over West Ham also marked a significant personal milestone for Mikel Arteta — his 300th match as Arsenal’s head coach. 

The occasion became even more memorable as the Gunners produced a commanding performance and secured a vital win against a fierce London rival.

Arteta reflected on the achievement with satisfaction:

“The last two matches have been very special for us. The win at Newcastle was crucial because we’ve struggled there in the past. Today, we avenged two consecutive home defeats against West Ham from previous seasons. Despite a demanding schedule and several serious injuries, the team showed resilience, played with intensity, and completely controlled the game. This is the perfect way to head into the international break.”

Rice’s Consistent Excellence on the International Stage

Declan Rice continues to be a pivotal figure not only for Arsenal but also for the England national team. 

He played a key role in England’s journey to the UEFA Euro 2020 final and the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals.

In March 2024, Rice was even entrusted with the captain’s armband for the first time, cementing his status as one of manager Thomas Tuchel’s most indispensable players.

As the Three Lions prepare for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Tuchel is expected to consider giving Rice some rest to ensure full recovery. 

England currently need just five points from their remaining three matches to secure qualification. 

If they defeat Latvia on October 14 and Serbia fail to beat Albania three days earlier, England will officially book their place in the tournament as Group K winners.

Given Rice’s exceptional performances for both club and country, his injury has become a matter of significant concern — not only for Arsenal supporters but also for fans of English football as a whole. 

All eyes will now be on his recovery, as the midfield dynamo’s fitness will play a vital role in Arsenal’s title ambitions and England’s international aspirations.