Arsenal`s plans for the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid have been significantly disrupted. It has been confirmed that key central defender Gabriel will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a serious hamstring injury.
Gabriel, a Brazilian international and a standout performer for Arsenal in the 2024-25 season, was injured during their recent 2-1 victory over Fulham. The hamstring injury is severe enough to require surgery, making him the third Arsenal player this season to undergo such a procedure. This follows similar injuries to Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz, with Havertz already ruled out for the season.
Arsenal stated that Gabriel will have surgery on his hamstring soon and will begin his rehabilitation program immediately. The club`s goal is to have him fully recovered and ready for the start of next season. Arsenal emphasized their full support for Gabriel and are committed to his swift recovery.
Adding to Arsenal`s defensive concerns ahead of the first leg against Real Madrid, 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 and has had limited appearances this season due to a previous surgery.
Furthermore, Arsenal are awaiting final assessment on Jurrien Timber`s knee injury, which occurred in the Fulham match. Scans have been conducted, and both the player and the club are hoping it is not a serious issue.
With Timber and White potentially unavailable, Arsenal might have to consider deploying Thomas Partey at right back and partner Jakub Kiwior with William Saliba in central defense. This makeshift defense would be tasked with containing Real Madrid`s formidable attack, including players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
