Arsenal's Gabriel Magalhães is a major doubt for the highly anticipated North London derby against Tottenham Hotspur next Sunday after sustaining a thigh injury while on international duty with Brazil. The injury occurred during Brazil's 2-0 friendly victory over Senegal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Gabriel, a linchpin in Arsenal's defense, was forced off the pitch in the 64th minute, signaling to Brazil's manager, Carlo Ancelotti, about discomfort in his upper thigh. Following the match, the Brazilian federation confirmed that tests revealed a muscle injury in Gabriel's right thigh. As a result, the center-back will not accompany the team to Lille for Tuesday's friendly against Tunisia and will instead return to Arsenal for immediate treatment and assessment.
The news comes as a significant blow to Arsenal, as Gabriel has been an ever-present figure in their Premier League campaign, playing every minute of all 11 games. His commanding presence in defense has been instrumental in Arsenal conceding just five goals and maintaining seven clean sheets already this season. Beyond his defensive capabilities, Gabriel also poses a threat in set-piece situations, having scored crucial goals against Atlético Madrid and Newcastle.
Brazil's manager Carlo Ancelotti said that Gabriel felt something in his adductor. He also mentioned that Gabriel will be examined.
Mikel Arteta is facing a potential defensive crisis ahead of a crucial run of fixtures. The Gunners, who currently sit atop the Premier League, are already grappling with a number of injuries to key players, including Martin Odegaard, and Gabriel Jesus. Losing Gabriel would further stretch their squad depth and disrupt the established partnership he has forged with William Saliba in central defense.
If Gabriel is ruled out for the North London derby, Arteta will have to consider alternative options to partner Saliba. Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are potential replacements.
The extent of Gabriel's injury remains uncertain, and Arsenal's medical team will conduct a thorough evaluation upon his return to determine the recovery timeline. Arsenal fans are anxiously awaiting updates, hoping that the injury is not severe and that Gabriel will be available for the crucial clash against their North London rivals.
