LONDON — Arsenal`s season faces another challenge. Despite Bukayo Saka`s positive return, injury problems have emerged in defense just before their crucial Champions League match against Real Madrid.
Gabriel Magalhaes, a consistent player for Arsenal, suffered an injury during the game. It appeared to be a minor issue against Adama Traore, but Gabriel signaled discomfort, raising concerns for manager Mikel Arteta.
With Real Madrid visiting the Emirates Stadium in seven days, the potential absence of arguably Arsenal`s key player is a significant setback after their victory over Fulham. Gabriel`s presence is crucial for defending against Real Madrid`s attack, especially in set pieces and against players like Rodrygo.
Gabriel has become a vital center-back for Arsenal, known for his strong headers and aggressive play, evolving into one of the league`s best defenders under Arteta`s guidance.
Adding to Arsenal`s worries, Jurrien Timber, who returned strongly after a long injury, also picked up a knee injury. Timber has impressed fans, even challenging Ben White`s position in the team, and his defensive skills would be valuable against Real Madrid`s Vinicius Junior.
Both players will undergo assessments. Arteta acknowledged the potential impact of losing one or both defenders, stating, “We don`t know how they are going to be. If there are two players in this team who never want to come off it is those two probably. Gabi felt something in his hamstring, we don`t know how big that is. With Jurrien as well, he already was struggling very early in the game. He managed to continue. At some point he couldn`t.”
Defense is key in the Champions League, and Arsenal`s strong defense, anchored by Gabriel and William Saliba, is crucial against attacking teams like Real Madrid.
When Gabriel, Timber, and Saliba play together in league and Champions League matches, Arsenal`s defense is statistically stronger. However, Gabriel`s absence in past games has shown a slight increase in goals conceded.
These small differences can be decisive in major competitions.
The availability of replacements is uncertain. Riccardo Calafiori is likely out, and Ben White is still recovering from an injury. Takehiro Tomiyasu remains a long-term absentee.
Arteta commented on the injury situation, “The good thing is it has been like this the whole season. You see Martinelli today, you say we missed him three months. You see Bukayo four months, Kai four months, Gabi Jesus, almost the whole season. How we have managed to be where we are with all those injuries, Ben White hasn`t participated at all this season. It`s what it is. We want it so much that we`re going to give it a real go and we are very excited for the next week.”
Despite the challenges, young players like Myles Lewis-Skelly are stepping up, and Saliba remains a consistent presence in defense.
Jakub Kiwior is a capable backup and provides versatility in defense. Arteta praised Kiwior`s reliability and adaptability across different defensive positions.
The game also had positive moments, like Martinelli`s strong performance and Saka`s return. Saka`s goal brought excitement to the Emirates, reminiscent of Rice`s goal against Manchester United.
While Saka and Martinelli`s form are encouraging, the injuries to Gabriel and Timber have overshadowed the positive aspects, casting a shadow over Arsenal`s Champions League preparations.
Dominic Ashworth