Arsenal have been handed a huge injury concern during the November international break after Gabriel Magalhaes was seen limping off during Brazil’s clash against Senegal.
The centre-back was in some pain after holding what looked to be a groin injury on his right side.
Magalhaes and William Saliba have formed a formidable partnership at the Gunners in recent seasons.
Arsenal’s centre-back duo have conceded a meagre five goals in the English top-flight so far this season, with their performances playing a key role in Mikel Arteta’s side having a four-point lead at the Premier League summit.
The Gunners’ partnership in defence is widely viewed as the best in English football as Arsenal chase a first league title since 2004.
But that solid partnership could now be under threat due to injury.
Gabriel was forced off at the Emirates Stadium shortly after the hour mark, and Arteta will now be sweating over the Brazilian’s fitness ahead of the Gunners’ return to action in the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur on November 23.
Gabriel’s expression said it all, and he covered his face with his shirt in frustration as he exited the pitch.
The news comes after another defensive injury setback, with Riccardo Calafiori forced to cut short his international duty with Italy and return to London.
Reports from Italy confirmed the defender departed the Italy camp on Saturday, missing his nation’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Norway on Sunday evening.
He will now return to London, where he will be assessed by Arsenal doctors. Italy boss Gennaro Gattuso had said: “He tried to be available but he can’t force now,” regarding Calafiori’s situation.
It’s believed Arsenal medical staff have been notified of Calafiori’s return to the capital, with the club not anticipating any serious complications.
In other news, Norway boss Stale Solbakken believes Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard is still “some distance away” from his own return. Gabriel Jesus is also set to make a comeback ahead of the new year, following ACL surgery in late January.
Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres and Gabriel Martinelli are also on the mend from hamstring and groin injuries they picked up before the international break.
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