Arsenal`s plans for the upcoming Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid have been seriously disrupted. It`s confirmed that center-back Gabriel will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to a significant hamstring injury.
The Brazilian player, who has been a key performer for Arsenal this season, was injured during their 2-1 victory over Fulham on Tuesday. The hamstring injury is severe enough to require surgery, making him the third Arsenal player this season to undergo this type of operation. Bukayo Saka recently recovered from a similar muscle issue, while Kai Havertz has been unavailable since February and will also miss the rest of the season.
Arsenal stated that Gabriel will have surgery on his hamstring soon and will begin his recovery program to be ready for the start of next season. The club is focused on supporting Gabriel to ensure his full recovery as quickly as possible.
This injury to a key defender is not the only concern for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta before the first leg against Real Madrid. Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to miss both legs due to a knee injury sustained during international duty. Additionally, Ben White was absent from Arsenal`s last game due to knee discomfort. White has only played 16 times this season in all competitions, having had minor knee surgery in November.
Arsenal are also awaiting the final assessment of another injury sustained in the Fulham game. Jurrien Timber had scans on his knee after a collision; the club hopes it is not a serious issue.
Without Timber and White, Arsenal might have to use Thomas Partey at right-back and Jakub Kiwior alongside William Saliba in central defense when they face Real Madrid`s attacking players like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
Adrian Whitmore