The 26-year-old England international suffered a scare during Arsenal's 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday evening. Rice was substituted in the 83rd minute after appearing to clutch his calf following a challenge, prompting brief concern among the home supporters. He received on-pitch treatment before being replaced by Viktor Gyökeres.
Post-match assessments have been encouraging, however. Rice himself reassured reporters, telling Sky Sports that he is "fine" and anticipates no issues in participating at Villa Park. Arsenal's medical staff will conduct a final evaluation during Friday's training session, but sources close to the club indicate optimism that the issue is minor and unlikely to sideline him for the early 12:30 p.m. kickoff.
Arteta echoed a more cautious tone immediately after the Brentford win, stating: "Declan had to come off. We don't know. We have to see tomorrow what he's got. He can walk but he cannot play." Despite this, the club's internal updates suggest Rice avoided a serious setback, allowing him to applaud the fans from the pitch edge at full time.
The positive news on Rice comes as Arsenal navigate several defensive absences. Centre-back William Saliba is undergoing a fitness test after a training-ground knock ahead of the Chelsea draw last weekend, while Gabriel Magalhães remains sidelined longer-term. Leandro Trossard is also racing to recover from a calf strain sustained in the Champions League triumph over Bayern Munich. Additionally, defender Cristhian Mosquera was forced off in the first half against Brentford with a suspected ankle or knee problem, adding to Arteta's selection headaches.
With Arsenal holding a five-point lead at the summit of the Premier League table following the Brentford result, Rice's availability could prove pivotal in maintaining momentum during a congested festive schedule. The Gunners will look to extend their unbeaten run as they aim to defend their title credentials against a resurgent Aston Villa side.
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