Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has said that Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice “did not look good” following Sunday’s London derby 1-1 draw at Stamford Bridge.
Arteta’s charges managed only a point from their visit to west London, with Gabriel Martinelli scoring Arsenal’s lone goal, which Pedro Neto quickly canceled out shortly after the hour mark.
Both the red and blue half of London failed to find the winning goal, as Leandro Trossard spurned a glorious chance to secure all three points for the Gunners when he sent William Saliba’s cross wide in the game’s final seconds.
However, Arteta had more than the scoreline to worry about, as both Saka and Rice were forced out of the game through injury. Saka limped off after a collision with Marc Cucurella, while Rice, struggling with a suspected foot injury, was replaced by Mikel Merino.
“They [Saka and Rice] don’t look very good,” Arteta told Sky Sports after the game.
“I don’t know [if it’s long-term]. They both couldn’t finish the game, so not good.
The Arsenal boss also expressed his disappointment at conceding a goal in the manner which his side did. The Gunners’ passive defending allowed Neto to receive the ball in so much space and then unleash a thunderous strike past the helpless David Raya in goal.
“The disappointment of not getting three points is bigger [than being satisfied] and it will probably be bigger after watching it back.
“I think we dominated them, we were the better team in many phases and situations in the game and after going ahead, very disappointed in the way we conceded. It was so poor. It is not our standards and we don’t accept.”
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
