Arsenal face a significant test of their squad depth after Gabriel limped off during Brazil's friendly last weekend, with fears the defender could be sidelined until January. The Gunners have endured an injury-hit season but have coped admirably, yet Gabriel's absence would be a major blow to Mikel Arteta's plans.
Gabriel and Declan Rice are the only players to have featured in every game this season, underlining the Brazilian's importance. Arteta has hailed him as 'one of the best centre-backs in the world', and his impact is felt at both ends: he has two goals and three assists, and ranks first in the Arsenal squad for aerial duels, blocks and clearances in the Premier League.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher described Gabriel as 'the most influential player in the Premier League right now', noting his role as a colossus at the back and the league's best set-piece threat. His aggressive, front-footed defending and vocal leadership have made him a cornerstone of Arteta's side.
Gabriel's partnership with William Saliba has flourished, with the pair communicating in a mix of English, French and Portuguese. Arteta has said 'it just flows' between them. His personality and style complement Saliba's composure, and his absence would disrupt that balance.
Arsenal previously struggled without Gabriel for the final 12 games of last season, winning only five. With Jakub Kiwior now on loan at Porto, Arteta will turn to Cristhian Mosquera, Piero Hincapie or Riccardo Calafiori to fill the void. The north London derby against Spurs on Sunday looms as a critical early test without their defensive linchpin.
