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Arsenal's manager has expressed concern that his squad's pursuit for titles this campaign is being threatened by a worrying cycle of injuries and a relentless schedule.

Latest Squad Update

Star player Declan Rice did not travel for the midweek clash to face Club Brugge due to sickness. Meanwhile, attacker Leandro Trossard and center-back William Saliba are still on the sidelines.

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

"Practice, no because we don't have time to train. But clearly 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 circle."

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

Extended Absences

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are not expected to be back until 2025.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz still rehabilitate from knee and "needs more time," as stated by the manager.

Arteta dismissed the idea that practice methods were to culprit, pointing to a lack of time for drills. He emphasized the strain on fit players, some of whom have featured over 150 games in two seasons.

Recruitment Plans

Even after a major summer spend exceeding £250 million, Arteta stated the team is unlikely looking to enter the January transfer market.

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

Next Challenge

The team suffered their first defeat in 18 matches at the weekend, reducing their advantage at the top of the league to two points.

Attention now shifts to the European stage, where a sixth group-stage victory would virtually secure a knockout phase finish. Forward Gabriel Martinelli could make a club record by finding the net in a fifth consecutive Champions League match.

"We are disappointed with the result, but we have to move forward," he said. "It's not like all is going wrong because we lost one game. So we stick together."