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Arsenal's manager has expressed concern that his squad's pursuit for honors this season is being threatened by a concerning circle of injuries and a relentless schedule.

Latest Squad Update

Key midfielder Declan Rice missed the Champions League trip to face Club Brugge due to sickness. Meanwhile, forward Leandro Trossard and center-back William Saliba are still on the sidelines.

There was, however, better news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the South American forward added to their European squad. He replaces the hurt youngster Max Dowman, who suffered an ankle problem.

"Training, no because we don't have time to train. But obviously the fact that you are without players, you are placing demands on other players more, there's a consequence to that and it's a really vicious circle."

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

Extended Absentees

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are unlikely to return until 2025.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz continues to rehabilitate from surgery and "needs more time," according to the manager.

Arteta rejected the suggestion that training intensity were to blame, citing a shortage of time for drills. He highlighted the strain on available players, some of whom have featured over 150 matches in two seasons.

Recruitment Strategy

Despite a significant summer investment exceeding £250 million, Arteta insisted the club is not planning to enter the January 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. "It's clear how important those coming weeks are going to be."

Next Challenge

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

Focus now shifts to the Champions League, where a sixth group-stage victory would all but secure a top-eight place. Forward Gabriel Martinelli could create history by scoring in a fifth consecutive Champions League fixture.

"We are frustrated with the outcome, but we have to keep going," Martinelli stated. "It's not like all is going wrong because we lost one game. So we remain united."