Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta faces a tense wait on the fitness of several key players ahead of a monumental week for the club. The Gunners host Sporting CP in the Champions League on Wednesday before a potential Premier League title-decider against Manchester City, but their preparations have been clouded by injury concerns.

Star midfielder Declan Rice, winger Bukayo Saka, captain Martin Ødegaard, defender Jurrien Timber, and new signing Riccardo Calafiori were all notable absentees from Tuesday's open training session. Arteta admitted the situation is uncertain, stating the club must "wait until tomorrow morning to see how a few of the boys are" before making final decisions.

The manager provided specific updates on some of the walking wounded. On Bukayo Saka, Arteta confirmed the England international is managing "an Achilles issue" he has "been carrying for a while." While there has been progression, his return is a matter of "days and not weeks," dependent on how he responds to increased training load.

Regarding Declan Rice, Arteta remained coy on the exact nature of the problem but acknowledged the midfielder's heavy workload this season is a factor. "He has played a lot of games, and that is part of the issue," Arteta said, adding that Rice will "try to do everything he possibly can" to be available for the crucial Sporting clash.

There was a glimmer of hope for one potential return, with Arteta hinting, "Maybe one of them," when asked about Timber or Saka. However, no concrete update was provided on Ødegaard or Calafiori, who both missed last weekend's match.

These potential absences threaten to disrupt Arsenal's rhythm during what Arteta has called the "biggest opportunity" of his tenure. With the season reaching its climax, the fitness of these core players could be the defining factor in their pursuit of silverware. All eyes will be on the team sheet come Wednesday night at the Emirates.