Arsenal fear that Gabriel Magalhães could be sidelined for at least a month after the defender suffered a thigh injury while playing for Brazil, potentially ruling him out of a crucial stretch of the season.
The 27-year-old limped off during Brazil’s 2-0 win over Senegal at the Emirates Stadium last weekend. After returning to London, scans confirmed a muscle injury in his right thigh. Tests are ongoing, but Gabriel is already expected to miss Sunday’s north London derby against Tottenham and Arsenal’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich.
Depending on the severity, Gabriel could be absent for Premier League matches against Chelsea, Brentford, and Aston Villa, as well as the Champions League trip to Club Brugge on 10 December. Arsenal then face Wolves and a rescheduled game against Everton on 20 December.
The loss is significant: Gabriel has played every Premier League minute this season and is central to a defence that has conceded only five goals in 11 matches. New signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are the leading candidates to step in against Spurs.
Arsenal’s injury list is growing. Viktor Gyökeres remains doubtful with a hamstring issue, while captain Martin Ødegaard, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli are all sidelined. Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann also revealed Kai Havertz has suffered a “minor relapse” in his knee recovery, delaying his return until later in the year.
Despite holding a four-point lead over Manchester City, Arsenal’s squad depth will be tested as they navigate a demanding December without several key players.
