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Gabriel Magalhaes will undergo surgical repair on his hamstring after suffering an injury relapse, ruling him out for the rest of the season. The defender will begin his rehabilitation program with the aim of being ready for the start of the 2025/26 campaign, as confirmed by Arsenal.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Gabriel sustained the hamstring injury during Arsenal’s Premier League match against Fulham earlier this week in the Gunner’s 2-1 win. The Brazilian international was forced off in the first half, just 16 minutes into the game, after pulling up during defensive play. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the need for surgery, and subsequent tests revealed the seriousness of the injury. While there were earlier hopes that Gabriel might recover without surgery, these have been dashed.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Gabriel’s absence has added to Arsenal’s growing injury list, which already includes players like Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka (recently returned), Gabriel Jesus, and Takehiro Tomiyasu. Despite these setbacks, Arsenal’s defensive line, led by William Saliba and supported by Jakub Kiwior, Rodri Guerra, or Jurrien Timber, has been managing well. The Gunners currently hold second place in the Premier League, maintaining a 4 point gap over third-placed Nottingham Forest. Gabriel’s absence will, however, be a significant challenge, especially ahead of their Champions League clashes and the tail-end of the season in the Premier League.
WHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?
Arsenal will face Everton in the Premier League on April 5, followed by a high-stakes UEFA Champions League quarter-final first leg against Real Madrid at the Emirates on April 8. With Gabriel out for the season, Mikel Arteta will have to rely on alternate defensive setups, with Jakub Kiwior, Jurrien Timber, or Ben White potentially stepping in alongside William Saliba. The second leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu is set for April 16, marking a critical phase in Arsenal’s campaign as they manage their injury crisis.
