Arsenal fear that Gabriel Magalhães could be sidelined for at least a month after the Brazil defender sustained a thigh injury while on international duty. The 27-year-old limped off during Brazil's 2-0 friendly win against Senegal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday and subsequent tests confirmed a muscle injury in his right thigh.
The influential centre-back is expected to miss the north London derby against Tottenham on Sunday and the Champions League clash with Bayern Munich three days later. There are concerns he could also be absent for Premier League matches against Chelsea, Brentford, and Aston Villa, as well as the Champions League trip to Club Brugge on 10 December.
Gabriel has played every minute of Arsenal's Premier League campaign, with the defence conceding only five goals in 11 games. His absence is a significant blow to Mikel Arteta's side, who hold a four-point lead over Manchester City. Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are contenders to replace him against Spurs.
Arsenal's injury woes extend beyond Gabriel. Striker Viktor Gyökeres is doubtful for the Tottenham match due to a hamstring injury, while Kai Havertz has suffered a minor relapse in his recovery from a knee injury, according to Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann. Captain Martin Ødegaard, Noni Madueke, and Gabriel Martinelli are also on the absentee list, stretching the squad depth.
