Is Arsenal's Gabriel Out After Thigh Injury on Brazil Duty?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Gabriel is sidelined due to a thigh injury.
- He has been crucial to Arsenal's defense this season.
- His absence may impact upcoming matches against Tottenham and Chelsea.
- Multiple players are already injured, heightening concerns for the squad.
- Gabriel Jesus is back in training after a long-term injury.
London, Nov 16 (NationPress) Arsenal's defender Gabriel has been sidelined due to a muscle injury in his right thigh, as confirmed by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) on Sunday. This injury occurred during Brazil’s friendly match against Senegal, held at Arsenal’s home ground in North London, where the centre-back had to exit the field after feeling discomfort.
The 27-year-old has been integral to Arsenal’s defense this season, participating in every Premier League match while the Gunners are currently four points ahead at the top of the standings. However, this latest injury means he will miss the national team’s upcoming friendly against Tunisia in Lille on Tuesday. The CBF did not indicate how long he might be out, leaving both his club and country awaiting further medical assessments.
This isn't Gabriel's first struggle with fitness this year. An April hamstring injury kept him off the field for over three months, and Arsenal will be cautious about rushing him back with a demanding schedule approaching. The Gunners have key Premier League matches against Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea later this month, and a significant Champions League match against Bayern Munich at home on November 26. His absence raises concerns for manager Mikel Arteta, especially considering the squad is already facing multiple injuries.
Gabriel’s injury adds to Arsenal’s increasing list of unavailable defenders. Italian international Riccardo Calafiori has also sustained an injury while on national duty, as confirmed by Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso. Additionally, the club is managing injuries to forwards Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyokeres, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, and captain Martin Odegaard.
On a positive note, forward Gabriel Jesus has returned to training after recovering from a cruciate ligament injury sustained in January, although he has yet to make a competitive return.