Arsenal have confirmed that Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhães will miss the rest of the season as he requires surgery on a hamstring injury sustained in their 2-1 victory over Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
The 27-year-old centre-back was forced off in the first half against Fulham, dealing a significant blow to Arsenal’s defensive stability as they enter a crucial phase of the season.
Gabriel has been a key figure in Mikel Arteta’s backline, starting 28 of Arsenal’s 30 Premier League games this season and playing an instrumental role in their league-best defensive record, conceding just 25 goals so far.
The club has assured fans that the former Lille defender will begin his rehabilitation process immediately after undergoing surgery, with a targeted return ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
“Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure to his hamstring in the coming days and immediately begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, with the aim to be ready for the start of next season,” Arsenal said in an official statement.
Gabriel’s absence comes at a critical time, as Arsenal chase both domestic and European glory. The Gunners currently sit second in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool, with just eight matches left to play.
Additionally, Arsenal are preparing for their Champions League quarter-final showdown against Real Madrid, with the first leg set for April 8 at the Emirates Stadium before they travel to the Bernabéu for the return leg on April 16.
Losing Gabriel is a major setback for Arteta’s side as they look to maintain their defensive solidity in the business end of the season. The Gunners will now have to rely on William Saliba, Jakub Kiwior, and Ben White to step up in his absence.
