EXCLUSIVE Mikel Arteta has been told he's already got the perfect understudy waiting in the wings as Gabriel hobbled off for Brazil during the international break
14:57, 22 Nov 2025
Gabriel was injured over the international break
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Gabriel was injured over the international break(Image: Getty Images)
Arsenal's Premier League dreams were dealt a blow over the international break - as Gabriel hobbled off during Brazil's friendly with Senegal.
The Brazilian has been the jewel in Mikel Arteta's defensive crown while chipping in with five goals so far this season. However, he's now set for a spell on the sidelines after sustaining a thigh injury.
Gabriel hobbled off the pitch against Senegal, and was quickly ruled out of Brazil's match with Tunisia a couple of days later. And Arteta has now confirmed "he'll be out for weeks".
However, Arsenal icon Lauren isn't too worried about the Gunners title chances taking a hit - admitting the Gunners have a ready made replacement who is ready to step up.
Speaking to Daily Star Sport , via PlayFrank, he said: "It’s a big blow for sure as Gabriel is Arsenal’s first choice defender and he has a brilliant partnership with Saliba.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during a training session at Sobha Realty Training Centre on November 19, 2025 in London Colney, England
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Mikel Arteta has plenty of defensive options(Image: Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
"He is outstanding defensively and also a massive threat going forward. There is no doubt he will be missed, especially his presence on the pitch.
"However, this is the best and most balanced squad Arsenal have had under Mikel Arteta and for a very long time.
"I watch a lot of Spanish Football and I can tell you Mosquera is a brilliant centre back if he is the one who plays instead.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta with (2ndL) new signing Cristhian Mosquera and (R) Sporting Director Andrea Berta at Sobha Realty Training Centre on July 19, 2025 in London Colney, England.
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Cristhian Mosquera signed over the summer(Image: Getty)
"Look at his debut at Liverpool, it looked liked he had been playing for Arsenal for a long time. He is a strong defender, calm and excellent on the ball.
"He can fit in straight away. I also like Hincapie, who has also played a few games now and is very strong and can do a good job on the left of the centre back position.
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"With Calafiori also available there, Arsenal have multiple options to have this positioned not only covered but also not to let it effect them.
"So I have no doubt in the replacement Mikel chooses will be able to step in well."