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

Latest Team Update

Star player Declan Rice did not travel for the Champions League trip to face Club Brugge due to illness. In addition, attacker Leandro Trossard and defender William Saliba remain on the sidelines.

There was, however, positive news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the South American striker registered to their Champions League squad. He replaces the injured youngster Max Dowman, who picked up an foot problem.

"Practice, no because we don't have time to train. But obviously the fact that you are missing players, you are placing demands on other players more, there's a knock-on effect to that and it's a really dangerous cycle."

Dowman's issue is the latest in a extensive series of fitness problems for the club. Since the beginning of last season, they have recorded 95 player absences, the second-most total in the Premier League.

Extended Absences

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are unlikely to return until 2025.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz still rehabilitate from surgery and "requires more time," as stated by the boss.

Arteta rejected the suggestion that practice methods were to blame, citing a lack of opportunity for drills. He highlighted the pressure on available players, some of whom have featured over 150 matches in two seasons.

Transfer Plans

Even after a major off-season investment over £250 million, Arteta stated the team is not looking to enter the winter transfer market.

"At the moment we're just focusing on getting the players back and hopefully it will be a matter of weeks," he said. "We know how important those coming weeks are going to be."

Looking Ahead

The squad experienced their initial loss in 18 matches at the weekend, cutting their lead at the summit of the league to two points.

Attention now turns to the European stage, where a sixth consecutive group victory would all but secure a top-eight finish. Forward Gabriel Martinelli could make history by finding the net in a fifth consecutive Champions League match.

"We are frustrated with the outcome, but we have to move forward," he said. "This isn't like everything is going badly because we lost one game. So we stick together."