It`s been a tough season for Arsenal with persistent injury setbacks. Just as Bukayo Saka brought excitement back to the fans, new problems arose. With a crucial Champions League game against Real Madrid approaching, injuries have hit their defense hard.
First, Gabriel Magalhaes, a consistently present player for Arsenal missing very few games since 2021, faced an unexpected issue. While dealing with Adama Traore, Gabriel seemed to injure himself. This is unusual for Gabriel, who usually handles such situations well. Unfortunately, this season seems to be one where even minor incidents turn into major problems, and Gabriel`s reaction suggests it could be serious.
Just a week before Real Madrid`s visit, potentially Arsenal`s best player this season is injured. This is a significant blow after a victory against Fulham. Gabriel is the defender Arsenal would rely on against Real Madrid, especially in set-pieces and to defend against players like Rodrygo. He`s also a key target for passes from Declan Rice and Saka.
Gabriel has elevated his status this year, becoming recognized as one of the top center-backs in football. Arsenal has long recognized his quality, with manager Mikel Arteta refining his raw talent into a top defender.
Losing Gabriel should have been enough misfortune, but unfortunately, Jurrien Timber also got injured. After returning this season from a long-term ACL injury, Timber has performed exceptionally well. He even made some fans question Ben White`s place in the team. Timber is the kind of strong defender needed to defend against Vinicius Junior and could have even replaced Gabriel at center back. However, he injured his knee while blocking a shot and continued playing for almost an hour before being substituted.
Both players will be assessed to determine the extent of their injuries. It`s clear that losing one, let alone both, would be a major setback for Arsenal.
Manager Arteta acknowledged the uncertainty, stating that both players are very resilient and dislike being substituted. He mentioned Gabriel felt a hamstring issue, and Timber was struggling early in the game but continued playing until he couldn`t anymore.
Defense is crucial in the Champions League, and Arsenal`s strong defense, anchored by Gabriel and William Saliba, is key to containing attacking threats like Mbappe and Vinicius.
With Gabriel, Timber, and Saliba playing together in the Premier League and Champions League this season, Arsenal has conceded fewer goals and maintained a strong defensive record.
Looking at a larger sample size, Arsenal`s defense is noticeably weaker when Gabriel is absent, conceding more expected goals per game.
These small differences can be decisive in major competitions.
The availability of replacements is also uncertain. Riccardo Calafiori is likely out due to a knee injury, and Ben White is just returning from surgery and not fully fit. Takehiro Tomiyasu is still a long way from returning.
Arteta humorously noted that dealing with injuries has been the story of their season. He mentioned the long absences of key players like Martinelli, Saka, and Gabriel Jesus, highlighting their resilience in still achieving a good position despite these challenges. He emphasized their determination and excitement for the upcoming week.
Despite the injuries, some players are stepping up. Myles Lewis-Skelly, an 18-year-old midfielder, is performing well at left-back. Saliba remains composed and unaffected by the surrounding issues.
Jakub Kiwior is a reliable backup, capable of playing in various defensive positions. While he may not be ideal for high-stakes games immediately, he is ready to contribute and will be needed.
Arteta praised Kiwior`s reliability and positive attitude, noting his readiness to play wherever needed.
The game also had positive moments. Martinelli delivered a strong performance, and Saka made a fantastic return from injury, scoring a goal. This game could have been a perfect lead-up to the Champions League match. However, the injuries to Gabriel and Timber have overshadowed the positive aspects and created new concerns for Arsenal`s Champions League campaign.
