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Arsenal's manager has expressed concern that his squad's chase for titles this season is being jeopardized by a worrying circle of injuries and a relentless schedule.

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Star player Declan Rice did not travel for the Champions League clash to face Club Brugge due to illness. In addition, attacker Leandro Trossard and defender William Saliba remain on the sidelines.

There was, on a brighter note, better news regarding Gabriel Jesus, with the South American striker added to their European squad. He replaces the injured youngster Max Dowman, who suffered an foot injury.

"Practice, no because we lack time to train. But obviously the fact that you are without players, you are loading other players more, there's a consequence to that and it's a truly dangerous cycle."

Dowman's issue is the most recent in a long series of injuries for the club. Since the beginning of last season, they have recorded 95 injuries, the second-highest total in the Premier League.

Extended Absences

• Defenders Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel Magalhães are not expected to return until the new year.
• Midfielder Kai Havertz still recover from knee and "needs more time," as stated by the manager.

Arteta rejected the idea that training methods were to culprit, citing a lack of opportunity for sessions. He emphasized the strain on available players, some of whom have featured over 150 games in two seasons.

Transfer Plans

Even after a major off-season investment over £250 million, Arteta insisted the club is not looking to dip into the winter transfer market.

"Right now we're just focusing on getting the players back and hopefully it will be a question of a short time," he commented. "We know how important those coming weeks are going to be."

Next Challenge

The team suffered their initial loss in 18 matches at the hands of Aston Villa, reducing their advantage at the summit of the league to two clear points.

Focus now turns to the Champions League, where a sixth consecutive group-stage victory would virtually secure a knockout phase finish. Winger Gabriel Martinelli could create history by scoring in a fifth straight successive European match.

"The team is frustrated with the result, but we have to move forward," he said. "This isn't like all is going badly because we lost one game. So we stick together."