Arsenal have been dealt a significant setback after manager Mikel Arteta confirmed that defender Gabriel Magalhães will be sidelined for “weeks” due to an injury picked up on international duty with Brazil.
The centre-back, a key figure in a Gunners defence that has conceded just five goals in 11 Premier League games, suffered a thigh injury during Brazil’s 2–0 friendly win over Senegal at the Emirates Stadium last weekend.
“Gabi unfortunately picked up an injury with the Brazilian national team and he’s going to be out for weeks,” Arteta said. “We need another scan next Wednesday to get a clearer timeline.”
Arteta described the injury as a major blow, highlighting Gabriel’s leadership and influence in Arsenal’s back line. The Brazilian has formed a strong partnership with William Saliba and is known for his aerial threat on set-pieces.
With Gabriel out, Piero Hincapié and Cristhian Mosquera are in contention to step in for Sunday’s derby against Tottenham. However, Arteta noted the difficulty of replacing Gabriel’s unique qualities.
“Every player brings specific qualities, and Gabi’s are his leadership, his presence, and that love he has for defending. We have to spread that responsibility. The team has coped before and can cope again.”
More Injury Concerns for Arsenal
Left-back Riccardo Calafiori, another crucial defensive figure, also missed Italy’s recent international fixtures. Arteta revealed the defender is carrying “a few things” and has not yet returned to full training. His availability for Sunday remains uncertain.
Arsenal are also without long-term absentees Martin Ødegaard, Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyökeres, none of whom featured for their countries during the break. Arteta said final assessments will be made after Saturday’s training session.
North London Derby Looms
Arsenal sit four points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League, despite their recent 2–2 draw with Sunderland which ended a run of eight straight clean-sheet victories in all competitions.
The Gunners have dominated the fixture at home, losing just once to Tottenham in the league at the Emirates since 1993. However, Spurs arrive with the best away record this season — four wins and a draw from their five matches.
