Arsenal have been dealt an unwelcome international break scare, as Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti confirmed that centre-back Gabriel will undergo assessment after picking up a groin injury against Senegal.
The defender, who has been central to Arsenal’s excellent defensive record this season, appeared to pull up off the ball before receiving treatment and being substituted just before the hour mark.
Gabriel’s form this season has been crucial, helping Arsenal to the top of the league after conceding only five goals in 11 Premier League matches. And with an important North London derby against Tottenham approaching on 23 November, followed by a Champions League showdown with Bayern Munich just days later, the timing of his setback is far from ideal for Mikel Arteta.
Although Brazil eventually ran out 2-0 winners at the Emirates thanks to goals from Estevao and Casemiro, the focus shifted quickly to Gabriel’s condition. Yet Ancelotti urged calm afterwards, noting that the extent of the injury remains unclear and will only be confirmed after medical tests.
Arsenal face double concern as Calafiori also withdraws
While Gabriel’s situation dominates the headlines, Arsenal were also hit with news from Italy’s camp, as Riccardo Calafiori returned home after struggling with fitness issues.
ALSO READ:
- Martinelli’s magic rescues Arsenal as City collapse under pressure in thrilling encounter
- Haaland and Sorloth fire Norway to brink of first World Cup in 28 years
- Premier League reschedules Arsenal and Crystal Palace fixtures to ease December fixture chaos
- Premier League transfer record shattered following Arsenal’s signing of Eze
Although he had been following an individual load-management programme, Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso explained that the defender had experienced minor problems throughout the week.
Gattuso revealed that both the player and national staff agreed withdrawing Calafiori was the fairest option after he didn’t feature against Moldova. However, the Italy manager stressed his appreciation for the defender’s professionalism, highlighting the player’s willingness to remain with the squad despite his discomfort.
Moreover, reports indicated that Calafiori did not return to Arsenal for treatment, suggesting his withdrawal was based on precaution rather than any significant injury.
Even so, Arsenal will still be cautious as they await further updates on both defenders, especially with a congested fixture schedule looming. Although Arteta has depth in his back line, losing two key contributors at once would be a major disruption ahead of a defining stretch of the season.
Tags: Arsenal, #AFC, #COYG, Brazil, Italy, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori, Gennaro Gattuso.
