Arsenal`s plans for the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid have been disrupted by the news that center back Gabriel will miss the rest of the season due to a serious hamstring injury.
The Brazilian player, who has been a key performer for Arsenal in the 2024-25 season, was injured during their 2-1 victory over Fulham on Tuesday. The hamstring injury is severe enough to require surgery, making him the third Arsenal player this season to need this type of operation. Earlier in the season, Bukayo Saka also suffered a hamstring issue, and Kai Havertz has been sidelined since February and will also miss the rest of the season after surgery.
Arsenal stated that Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair his hamstring in the next few days and will begin his recovery program immediately. The club`s goal is to have him ready for the start of next season. Arsenal also emphasized their full support for Gabriel to ensure he returns to full fitness as quickly as possible.
This injury to a key defender adds to Mikel Arteta`s concerns ahead of the first leg against Real Madrid next Tuesday. Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to be unavailable for both legs due to a knee injury sustained during international duty. Additionally, Ben White recently experienced knee discomfort and missed Arsenal`s game against Fulham. White has only played 16 games this summer due to a previous knee surgery in November.
Arsenal are also awaiting the final assessment of Jurrien Timber`s knee injury, which he sustained in a collision during the Fulham match. The club hopes the injury is not too serious.
With Timber and White potentially unavailable, Arsenal might have to use Thomas Partey at right back and partner Jakub Kiwior with William Saliba in central defense. This makeshift defense will face a tough challenge against Real Madrid`s attacking stars like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
