1 week Ago
Mikel Arteta has issued an update on Gabriel’s hamstring injury, saying that Arsenal have “lost probably our best defender for four months.” The 27-year-old sustained the injury during the early stages of his side’s 2-1 victory over Fulham on April 1, with it later reported that the Brazil international would need to undergo season-ending surgery on the issue . Gabriel was seen on crutches at the Emirates on Wednesday during their 3-0 Champions League quarter-final victory over Real Madrid.
He also posted a video on Instagram from the Arsenal changing room where he heaped praised on Declan Rice following the midfielder’s two long-range free kicks. After the game, while praising Gabriel’s central defensive replacement Jakub Kiwior, Arteta confirmed the timescale of Gabriel’s absence. “It’s been a season where we’ve had to adapt constantly,” Arteta said.
“We’ve gone through a lot of things. We’ve lost probably our best defender (Gabriel) for four months but Jakub (Kiwior) comes in and delivers the performances that he’s been delivering. Advertisement “It’s not a coincidence.
The way they train, the way they apply themselves, and the way they help each other. I think it produces these moments (against Madrid).” The Brazilian centre-back is aiming to return to fitness for pre-season ahead of the 2025-26 campaign.
"Oh my god, give me your right foot please! Unbelievable brother!” Gabriel Magalhães had a message for Declan Rice after tonight's brace 🤣📱 (h/t _gabrielmagalhaes) pic.twitter.com/FfwLZNF0RF — Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 8, 2025 Gabriel took to social media to comment on his injury last week, saying: “I’ll be back soon, stronger than ever.
Until then, I’ll be supporting the team every step of the way.” Kiwior replaced Gabriel against Fulham last week and has started Arsenal’s last two games. The 25-year-old was named player of the match against Everton last Saturday and, despite Madrid’s renowned firepower in their attacking ranks, kept a clean sheet against the 15-time European Champions.
Arsenal are next in action against Brentford at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday before the second leg in Madrid next Wednesday. (Harry Murphy – Danehouse/Getty Images).
