Arsenal`s preparation for the crucial Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid has been significantly disrupted. The team has confirmed that center-back Gabriel will be sidelined for the remainder of the season due to a severe hamstring injury.
Gabriel, a standout performer for Arsenal throughout the 2024-25 season, was injured during their recent 2-1 victory over Fulham. The hamstring injury is serious enough to require surgery, making him the third Arsenal player this season to undergo this procedure. Bukayo Saka previously recovered from a hamstring issue, while Kai Havertz has been absent since February and is also expected to miss the rest of the season.
Arsenal released a statement: `Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair his hamstring in the coming days. He will immediately begin his recovery and rehabilitation, with the goal of being ready for the start of next season. Everyone at the club is committed to supporting Gabriel to ensure his swift return to full fitness.`
This injury to a key defender adds to Mikel Arteta`s concerns ahead of the first leg against Real Madrid. Riccardo Calafiori is also likely to miss both legs due to a knee injury sustained during international duty. Furthermore, Ben White was absent from Arsenal`s recent match due to knee discomfort. White has only made 16 appearances this season due to previous knee surgery in November.
Arsenal is also awaiting final assessment of Jurrien Timber`s knee injury, sustained in the Fulham game. Scans have been conducted, and the club hopes the injury is not serious.
With Timber and White potentially unavailable, Arsenal may need to consider deploying Thomas Partey at right back and partner Jakub Kiwior with William Saliba in central defense. This makeshift defense will face the formidable attack of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and other Real Madrid stars.
