Arsenal’s defensive anchor Gabriel Magalhaes is a significant doubt for tonight’s Champions League clash against Monaco, as Mikel Arteta deals with an escalating injury crisis.
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The 26-year-old Brazilian has been a standout performer this season, forming a solid partnership with William Saliba while posing a potent threat during set pieces. However, Gabriel has been sidelined since hobbling off in the final minutes of Arsenal’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Sporting Lisbon two weeks ago.
Though he played 45 minutes in the subsequent win over West Ham, Gabriel was substituted at halftime and has since missed matches against Manchester United and Fulham. Arteta has remained tight-lipped about the injury’s specifics but offered some clarity ahead of the Monaco clash, revealing it is a muscle injury.
“Big Gabi hasn’t had a muscular injury before,” Arteta explained. “He’s been playing a lot, traveling to Brazil, and is now a starter for the national team. That workload has taken its toll.”
Meanwhile, Riccardo Calafiori is another injury concern, with Arteta admitting the Italian defender’s eagerness to return could be counterproductive. “We need a cage there because he wants to train and play,” Arteta joked. “It started with a kick while with the national team, then a knee issue, and now a groin problem from playing more than we intended.”
Amid the mounting absences, Kieran Tierney, who hasn’t featured for Arsenal since May 2023, could finally get a chance to rejoin the starting lineup. Arteta praised the Scotland international’s attitude and readiness. “He’s been training really well and has earned this opportunity with the way he’s conducted himself.”
The Gunners’ injury woes have left Arteta juggling his squad with limited options. “It’s a knock-on effect,” he said. “Injuries lead to overload on other players, which increases the risk for them. We’re facing challenges, but it’s the reality of where we are.”
Arsenal’s battered squad faces a stern test against a well-organized Monaco side as they aim to secure vital points in their Champions League campaign.
