Arsenal have been dealt a major setback ahead of their UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Real Madrid, with Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhães ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury.
The 27-year-old centre-back sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Fulham in the Premier League on Tuesday. He was forced off in the 16th minute at the Emirates Stadium after going down in discomfort. Subsequent medical assessments confirmed that he would require surgery, ruling him out of action for the rest of the campaign.
In an official statement on Thursday, Arsenal confirmed the severity of the injury and outlined the next steps for Gabriel’s recovery.
“Following his substitution during our match against Fulham on Tuesday, we can confirm that Gabriel Magalhães has suffered a hamstring injury that requires surgery,” the statement read. “Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure in the coming days and will immediately begin his rehabilitation programme, with the aim of being fit for the start of next season.”
Gabriel has been a key figure in Arsenal’s defence, forming a formidable partnership with William Saliba. His absence comes as a significant blow to Mikel Arteta’s side, especially with a crucial run of fixtures ahead, including their Champions League quarter-final tie against Real Madrid.
Despite boasting the best defensive record in the Premier League this season—having conceded just 25 goals in 30 games—Arsenal remain second in the standings, trailing league leaders Liverpool by 12 points with eight matches left to play.
As the Gunners prepare for the final stretch of the season, Arteta will now have to reshuffle his defensive options, with Gabriel’s absence leaving a notable void in the backline.
