Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has suffered an injury blow just a week before the club’s crucial Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid.
The Brazilian was forced off after 15 minutes in the Gunners’ 2-1 win over Fulham in the Premier League tonight, on an evening where Bukayo Saka made his long-awaited return following four months out.
Despite seeing Saka score on his return, helping the side to three points, there was still a sour taste seeing Gabriel leave the field early, while Jurrien Timber was also seen struggling with an injury.
Arsenal go to Everton at lunchtime on Saturday, before welcoming Los Blancos to the Emirates next Tuesday, with Ben White also not involved tonight due to injury.
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Arteta confirms potential Gabriel setback
Speaking to the media post-match, manager Mikel Arteta did not seem upbeat about the status of both Gabriel and Timber.
“Gabriel felt something in his hamstring, we don’t know how big that is,” Arteta revealed.
However, when asked about whether the Real Madrid game is a realistic target for the 27-year-old, Arteta admitted: “It will be difficult.”
Arteta also provided an update on Timber, claiming that his issue was already known to the medical staff, but will still require further assessment.
“Jurrien was already struggling early, he could not continue, we will assess both players tomorrow.”
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How would Arsenal cope without Gabriel and Timber?
If both players are to miss their quarter-final first leg next week, the Arsenal defence could look seriously depleted.
Full-backs White, Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu are perfectly capable at playing as centre-backs, but all three are currently out, and with Timber now doubtful, Arteta could be without a recognised right-back too.
Jakub Kiwior replaced Gabriel this evening, and looks set to partner William Saliba for the trip to Goodison Park on Saturday at least, and the Pole could even find himself in the starting XI against Real Madrid next week.
A weakened backline could see more impetus placed on their attack, meaning the return of Saka has been timed to perfection, but after a lengthy hamstring setback, his minutes may still need to be managed in the near future.
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