Arsenal’s Gabriel Out for Season with Injury

Arsenal`s preparation for the Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid has been significantly impacted by the news that center back Gabriel will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a severe hamstring injury.

The Brazilian international, a standout player for his team throughout 2024-25, was forced off the field during the first half of Tuesday night`s 2-1 victory over Fulham. The hamstring injury is serious enough to require surgery, making him the third Arsenal player this season to undergo such a procedure. Bukayo Saka recently recovered from a similar muscle issue, while Kai Havertz has been unavailable since February due to a procedure that will keep him out for the remainder of the season.

Arsenal announced that Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair his hamstring in the coming days and will immediately commence his recovery and rehabilitation program, with the goal of being ready for the beginning of next season. The club emphasized its full support for Gabriel to ensure his complete recovery as quickly as possible.

The injury to their key center back is not the only concern for Mikel Arteta`s defense as they approach Tuesday`s first leg match. Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to be absent for both legs of the quarterfinal due to a knee injury sustained during the international break. Ben White also missed Arsenal`s recent game due to knee discomfort. The player has made limited appearances this summer, having had keyhole surgery in November.

Additionally, Arsenal is awaiting final confirmation on the extent of another injury sustained during the Fulham match. Jurrien Timber underwent scans for a knee issue resulting from a collision, and both he and the club are hoping the injury is not too serious.

Without Timber and White available, Arsenal might be compelled to use Thomas Partey at right back and Jakub Kiwior alongside William Saliba in central defense as they attempt to defend against Real Madrid`s formidable attack, including stars like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.