Arsenal have received a timely boost ahead of their crucial UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting CP, with both Declan Rice and Gabriel Magalhães returning to training.
The duo were spotted at the club’s London Colney training ground on Monday, easing concerns about their availability for Tuesday night’s clash in Lisbon. Their return comes at a critical moment for Mikel Arteta, whose side are looking to bounce back from a difficult run of results.
Rice, 27, had withdrawn from the England squad during the March international break following a medical assessment, which also ruled him out of Arsenal’s FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Southampton. Meanwhile, Gabriel suffered a knee knock during that same match and was forced off, raising fears of a potential defensive setback.
Their participation in training suggests both players could feature against Sporting CP, a major boost for Arsenal’s midfield stability and defensive solidity.
There was also positive news regarding Leandro Trossard, who returned to training after his own fitness concerns. However, Bukayo Saka was notably absent, having also left the England camp early. His availability remains uncertain, and his potential absence would be a significant blow given his importance to Arsenal’s attacking play.
Arsenal head into the fixture under pressure, aiming to avoid a third consecutive defeat following their FA Cup exit and a loss to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final. Despite these setbacks, the Gunners remain in a strong position domestically, sitting nine points clear at the top of the Premier League as they chase their first league title since the historic 2003–04 “Invincibles” season.
The upcoming clash in Lisbon represents a defining moment in Arsenal’s season, as they attempt to reassert momentum on the European stage. Arteta, alongside goalkeeper David Raya, is scheduled to address the media later on Monday, where further clarity on team selection and player fitness is expected.
With key players returning at the right time, Arsenal will hope to deliver a strong performance and take an advantage back to London ahead of the second leg.