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Arsenal's manager has voiced fears that his squad's chase for titles this campaign is being threatened by a concerning circle of injuries and a grueling schedule.

Fresh Squad News

Key midfielder Declan Rice did not travel for the Champions League clash to face Club Brugge due to sickness. Meanwhile, forward Leandro Trossard and center-back William Saliba are still on the sidelines.

There was, however, positive news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the Brazilian forward added to their European squad. He replaces the injured youngster Max Dowman, who picked up an foot problem.

"Training, no because we don't have time to train. But clearly the fact that you are without players, you are loading other players more, there's a consequence to that and it's a truly dangerous cycle."

Dowman's issue is the latest in a extensive series of injuries for the club. Since the start of last campaign, they have suffered 95 player absences, the second-most total in the Premier League.

Extended Absentees

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are not expected to return until 2025.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz continues to rehabilitate from knee and "requires more time," according to the boss.

Arteta rejected the suggestion that training intensity were to blame, pointing to a lack of opportunity for drills. He emphasized the pressure on fit players, some of whom have featured over 150 games in two years.

Transfer Plans

Even after a significant off-season investment exceeding £250 million, Arteta stated the club is unlikely planning to enter the winter recruitment market.

"At the moment we're just focusing on bringing the players back and with luck it will be a question of a short time," he said. "It's clear how crucial those weeks are going to be."

Next Challenge

The squad experienced their first loss in 18 matches at the hands of Aston Villa, reducing their advantage at the top of the league to two points.

Focus now turns to the Champions League, where a sixth group victory would virtually secure a knockout phase place. Winger Gabriel Martinelli could make a club record by scoring in a fifth consecutive European match.

"We are frustrated with the outcome, but we have to keep going," he stated. "This isn't like all is going wrong because we lost one game. So we remain united."