🚨Arteta confirms star player to be out for 'weeks' in major blow for Arsenal
Huge blow for the Gunners ahead of a busy festive period...
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has delivered a concerning update on star centre-back Gabriel Magalhães, confirming the Brazilian will be sidelined for a number of weeks due to a thigh injury sustained on international duty.
The news comes ahead of a crucial London derby against Brentford, marking a significant test for the Gunners’ defensive depth during the demanding festive fixture calendar.
Mikel Arteta gives update on Gabriel Magalhaes
Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of the match against Brentford, Mikel Arteta sounded a note of caution regarding the timeframe for the defender’s return to the Premier League action.
“Gabriel Magalhães is doing very well, but it will take weeks to see him back,” the Arsenal boss stated.
This timeline aligns with earlier reports suggesting the 27-year-old could be out for several weeks, putting his return date potentially into the new year.
The injury, a muscle issue picked up while playing for the Brazilian national team, is a clear setback for the club.
Why Gabriel’s absence is a huge blow to Arsenal
The loss of Gabriel is undeniably a major blow to Arsenal. Since his arrival, the Brazilian has developed into one of the league’s most consistent and dominant centre-backs, forming a formidable partnership with William Saliba.
The duo have been central to Arsenal boasting one of the best defensive records in the country.
Known for his commanding aerial presence, progressive passing, and crucial goal threat from set pieces, no defender has scored more Premier League goals since his debut, Gabriel is truly an anchor for the team.
His absence not only impacts defensive solidity but also affects the team’s build-up play and attacking prowess from dead-ball situations.
The coming weeks will be a true test of the Arsenal squad depth and resilience.
With Saliba also out injured, having picked up a niggle before the game against Chelsea, Arteta will be relying on Piere Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera, who did a decent job against Chelsea.
The immediate challenge for Mikel Arteta is maintaining the team’s defensive discipline without their leaders in the backline, a necessity if they hope to sustain their challenge at the top of the table.