Mikel Arteta confirms Declan Rice suffered cramp against Wolves

Mikel Arteta has played down injury fears for Declan Rice after the midfielder was forced off at the end of Arsenal’s clash with Wolves.

The Gunners began their title-winning campaign with a 2-0 win over Wolves at the Emirates Stadium, thanks to goals from Kai Havertz and Bukayo Saka.

Rice started the match following his performances with England at Euro 2024 but was sent off with five minutes remaining in what would have been a major concern for Arsenal fans.

Arteta plays down Rice injury fears

However, after the match, Arteta said the England international was not injured, but was merely suffering from cramp.

“He had a bit of cramp,” Arteta said in his post-match press conference.

“He hasn’t had the longest preparation ever. He really tried his best and did an incredible job today.”

Rice, now in his second season at the Emirates after leaving West Ham last summer, has become a key member of the Arsenal squad.

The midfielder made 51 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions last season, scoring seven goals and providing ten assists, and the Englishman will be hoping to improve on those numbers in the new campaign.

Rice started with Thomas Partey and Martin Odegaard, but he could soon play with a new midfielder.

Arsenal are reportedly set to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino. If all goes to plan, the Spain international will replace Riccardo Calafiori at the Emirates.

Despite the positive aspects of the performance, Arteta warned there was still room for improvement.

“There are definitely things that can be improved, but overall I’m very happy,” he added.

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“Especially the lack of control we had in moments in the second half, because we gave away so many simple balls. I don’t know if it was fatigue or what it was, also credit to Wolves.

“And in some situations we need to complete actions better.”

Arsenal now face a tough trip to Villa Park, where they face Aston Villa, who beat Arteta’s men in a double last season.