One concerning aspect of Arsenal’s victory over Sporting Club this week was the injury scare involving Gabriel Magalhães, who was unable to finish the match fully fit. The Brazilian defender appeared to pick up a knock toward the end of the game, raising concerns among Arsenal fans about his availability for their important Premier League clash against West Ham this weekend.
Gabriel has been one of Arsenal’s most reliable performers this season, often delivering exceptional displays in defence. His performances have occasionally outshone even those of his talented partner, William Saliba, highlighting his importance to Mikel Arteta’s side. When the pair are on the pitch together, Arsenal’s backline is among the most solid in the league, making it extremely difficult for opposing teams to find opportunities to score.
Gabriel’s contributions aren’t limited to his defensive duties. He is also a threat in the attacking third, as he demonstrated by scoring against Sporting. His ability to contribute goals makes him a valuable asset at both ends of the pitch, underscoring his importance to the team. Losing him for any period would undoubtedly weaken Arsenal’s setup.
Gabriel scoring against Tottenham
(Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
After the game, Arteta expressed uncertainty about the severity of Gabriel’s condition, fueling speculation about whether the defender would be ready for the upcoming match. However, Football London has since reported that the issue appears to be minor and that Gabriel is likely to be fit in time for the West Ham game.
Given Arsenal’s ambitions this season, Gabriel is one of the players the team cannot afford to lose. His presence in the lineup is critical for maintaining defensive stability and ensuring the team stays competitive in a demanding schedule. If he is indeed fit to play, Arsenal will be in a much stronger position to secure a vital win against a resilient West Ham side.