Rice, White, Mosquera and Dowman all available for Leeds clash

October 8, 2026Jed Dogomeo

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Arsenal have received a welcome set of fitness updates ahead of Saturday's Premier League trip to face Leeds United, with four players reportedly back in contention after a turbulent international break.

The Gunners head into the weekend looking to bounce back from their defeat to Brighton before the break, a result that leaves Mikel Arteta keen to see his squad return to form as quickly as possible. The international period brought its own headaches, with several players either withdrawing from national team duty or being sent home early because of fitness concerns.

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Rice withdrawal explained as load management

The most significant update concerns Declan Rice, who withdrew from the England squad during the break. According to Sports Illustrated, the decision was related to load management rather than a serious issue, and the midfielder is now fit and available to face Leeds. Given Rice's importance to Arteta's side in midfield, his availability will be viewed as a major boost as Arsenal attempt to respond to the Brighton loss.

Cristhian Mosquera is also reported to be fit again, having sustained an injury before the international break. The defender spent part of the break training back at Valencia, his former club, as he worked to regain full fitness.

White and Dowman also back in contention

Ben White did not feature for England during the break, but he too has been given the all-clear and is available for selection against Leeds. His return gives Arteta an additional option in defence heading into the weekend.

Max Dowman, who was sent home early from international duty, has also recovered and could be in line for involvement if Arteta opts to include him in his matchday squad.

With Mosquera, Rice, Dowman and White all reportedly back in the fold, Arsenal appear to have emerged from the international break with more positive news than might have been expected given the fitness concerns that arose during the camps. Arteta will now have greater selection options as he finalises his plans for the trip to Elland Road, with the Gunners eager to put the Brighton setback behind them and return to winning ways in the Premier League.

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