Arsenal face an anxious wait after defender Gabriel Magalhaes was forced off with an apparent groin injury while representing Brazil in their 2-0 friendly victory over Senegal at the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal have been dealt a significant injury concern after Gabriel Magalhaes was substituted during Brazil’s international friendly against Senegal at the Emirates Stadium. The 27-year-old centre-back, who has been in outstanding form this season, appeared to suffer a groin problem shortly after the hour mark.
Gabriel went down clutching his right thigh and required treatment on the pitch before being escorted off by medical staff. Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti promptly replaced him with Roma defender Wesley, as the Arsenal star was unable to continue.
The incident casts doubt over Gabriel’s availability for Arsenal’s upcoming fixtures, most notably the highly anticipated North London Derby against Tottenham next weekend. His absence would be a major setback for Mikel Arteta, given Gabriel’s pivotal role in Arsenal’s defensive solidity. Alongside William Saliba, he has helped the Gunners concede just five goals in their opening 11 Premier League matches, while also contributing offensively with two goals and two assists.
Brazil went on to secure a 2-0 win courtesy of goals from Chelsea’s Estevão and Manchester United’s Casemiro. However, Gabriel’s injury overshadowed the result, with reports suggesting he is unlikely to feature in Brazil’s next friendly against Tunisia in Lille.
For Arsenal, the timing could hardly be worse. With crucial matches against Tottenham, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea looming after the international break, Arteta will be hoping his key defender’s injury proves to be minor. The club’s medical team is expected to assess Gabriel further upon his return to London.
No comments:
Post a Comment