Mikel Arteta confirms Declan Rice and Cristhian Mosquera suffered injuries in Arsenal’s 2-0 win over Brentford.

Arsenal’s title hopes have been dealt a blow as Declan Rice and Cristhian Mosquera limped off with injuries in their 2-0 win over Brentford.

Mikel Arteta’s side moved five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, but the manager fears the injuries will hamper their bid to win the Premier League title.

Rice, who has been instrumental in Arsenal’s midfield, appeared to be nursing a calf injury when he was substituted 10 minutes from full-time. Arteta revealed that Rice can walk but won’t be able to play, and the extent of his injury will be assessed on Thursday.

Mosquera, the Spanish defender, was forced off just before half-time, adding to Arsenal’s growing injury list. Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba are already out, while Kai Havertz and Leandro Trossard are also sidelined.

Arteta had given Saka, Jurrien Timber, and Eberechi Eze a rest, but all three were eventually needed off the bench.

“We had a very demanding week at every level. We were asked to play three days later, with one less recovery day than them,” Arteta said. “We can play minutes, but if they can please give us just a little more time to recover and to make the welfare of these players a little bit easier, that would be great.”

Arsenal’s next match is against Aston Villa, and the team will need to find a way to overcome the injuries and secure a win. With their unbeaten run at home, they will be looking to continue their good form and stay top of the Premier League table.