Arsenal have been dealt a fresh concern in defense after a worrying substitution during their Champions League clash with Olympiacos, Gabriel Magalhaes was forced off the pitch, prompting fresh questions over his fitness.
With the Gunners fighting on multiple fronts this season, losing a key centre-back, even temporarily, is a blow.
Manager Mikel Arteta has since attempted to calm nerves, describing the withdrawal as a precautionary move.
In Arsenal’s 2–0 win over Olympiacos, Gabriel was taken off after a collision with Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. He received on-field treatment, but seemed noticeably hampered, leading to his substitution with Cristhian Mosquera stepping in.
Mikel Arteta issues injury update on Gabriel
After the game, Arteta addressed the incident publicly, emphasising that Gabriel’s removal was more a precaution than an indication of a serious injury. The manager insisted the Brazilian defender was a “bit uncomfortable,” but that his exit was intended to avoid further risk.
He told reporters, as reported by Express:
“Yeah, I think he’s going to be okay. He felt something, I think it was a kick, I’m not sure, in the first half, and he was a bit uncomfortable, and towards the second half he was there.
“He could carry on, but we decided not to take any, really, because he’s played a lot of games, he comes from a long-term injury as well, and we need to look after him.”
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Arsenal rely heavily on Gabriel
Gabriel of Arsenal looks on (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
Gabriel’s form has been instrumental for Arsenal this season, and his importance at the back cannot be overstated.
With multiple fixtures ahead and limited recovery time, even a short spell on the sidelines could strain the squad.
Although the Gunners have a good enough replacement in Mosquera at the club, Gabriel’s leadership and his form is crucial for Arteta’s team.
The Gunners face West Ham United in the next match at the weekend and Arteta will be hoping to have his senior defender back in the team for that match.
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