Gabriel Magalhaes has been one of Arsenal's best players so far this season. The Brazil international has been a revelation not just in the defensive half but also the opposition's box. In fact, he is the joint-third top goal-scorer for Arsenal in the Premier League this season.
However, Arsenal fans are currently sweating over Gabriel's injury. When Gabriel scored his third goal of the season against West Ham United, it was a great feeling. However, he only made it to the half-time point of the game. Against West Ham, Gabriel was replaced by Jakub Kiwior at half-time.
So, what is the latest Arsenal injury news involving Gabriel?
Speaking before the Man United game, Mikel Arteta was hesitant to comment on Gabriel's fitness levels. He did confirm, though, that taking him off against West Ham was related to the same injury which Gabriel picked up against Sporting CP in the previous week.
Gabriel ultimately missed the match against Man United entirely. This means he has missed 1.5 games for Arsenal as it stands.
Gabriel Magalhaes has returned to training for Arsenal. Sky Sports News explained that Gabriel was involved in inside training, which explains why he wasn't spotted in open training.
Speaking on the general state of Arsenal's injuries, Mikel Arteta did not provide any update. He simply said: "We have a few. It’s match day minus 2 so we have to modify a few players. Till tomorrow’s training session it’s very difficult to say."
If Gabriel Magalhaes is injured, the most likely Arsenal defender to replace him is Jakub Kiwior.
It was the Poland international who replaced Gabriel when he originally became injured against West Ham and Kiwior also started against Man United in midweek.
If Gabriel is even 50% fit, he will start. He seemed very confident about returning to action against Man United, indicating to the Arsenal fans "see you Wednesday (against Man United)."
As always, Mikel Arteta has made it very difficult for fantasy football managers. If I were to offer my own prediction, I would recommend sticking with Gabriel in your team.
That isn't based on any Arteta comment (he made that pretty impossible) but common sense indicates that Gabriel will play this match. Having privately trained and proven his worth to Arsenal this season, he should start. Let's hope so, anyway.
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