Arsenal`s preparation for the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid has been severely disrupted by the news that center-back Gabriel will be out for the rest of the season due to a significant hamstring injury.
The Brazilian player, who has been a standout performer for Arsenal, sustained the injury during their recent 2-1 victory over Fulham. The hamstring issue is serious enough to require surgery, making him the third Arsenal player this season to undergo such a procedure. This follows similar hamstring injuries to Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, although Saka has since returned, and Havertz remains sidelined for the season.
Arsenal confirmed that Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair his hamstring in the coming days. He will then begin a rehabilitation program aimed at getting him fit for the start of the next season. The club stated their full support for Gabriel to ensure a swift return to full fitness.
Adding to manager Mikel Arteta`s defensive concerns before the first leg match on Tuesday, Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to miss both legs due to a knee injury sustained during international duty. Ben White also missed the Fulham game with knee discomfort. White has only made 16 appearances this season due to previous keyhole surgery in November.
Arsenal are also awaiting the full assessment of another injury sustained in the Fulham match. Jurrien Timber underwent scans on his knee after a collision with Raul Jimenez. The club is hoping the injury is not too serious.
The absence of Timber and White could force Arsenal to consider deploying Thomas Partey at right-back and partnering Jakub Kiwior with William Saliba in central defense. This makeshift defense would face the daunting task of containing Real Madrid`s attacking stars like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
