Arsenal`s plans for their upcoming Champions League quarterfinal match against Real Madrid have been significantly disrupted. It has been confirmed that their central defender, Gabriel, will be unable to play for the remainder of the season due to a serious hamstring injury.
Gabriel, a key player for Arsenal and arguably their best performer 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 face this type of operation. Bukayo Saka previously recovered from a hamstring issue, and Kai Havertz has been sidelined since February due to a similar procedure.
Arsenal released a statement saying, “Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair his hamstring in the coming days. He will then begin his recovery program, aiming to be ready for the start of next season. Everyone at the club is focused on supporting Gabriel to ensure he returns to full fitness as quickly as possible.”
This injury to a key defender adds to Mikel Arteta`s concerns as they prepare for the first leg against Real Madrid. Another defender, Riccardo Calafiori, is also expected to miss both legs of the quarterfinal due to a knee injury sustained during international duty. Additionally, Ben White was absent from Arsenal`s recent game due to knee discomfort. White has only played in 16 games this season due to a previous knee surgery in November.
Arsenal are also awaiting final updates on Jurrien Timber`s knee injury, which he sustained in the Fulham game. The club is hoping the injury is not too serious.
With Timber and White potentially unavailable, Arsenal might have to use Thomas Partey as a right-back and partner Jakub Kiwior with William Saliba in central defense. This makeshift defense will face the formidable attack of Real Madrid, including players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
Dominic Ashworth