Arsenal magical centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes is eyeing a festive resurgence, with news indicating he’s coming back from injury on the high-stakes clash against Aston Villa on December 30. The Brazilian’s absence has left a void in Mikel Arteta‘s backline. But positive whispers from Colney suggest the 27-year-old could anchor the Gunners’ defense just in time for the New Year push.
The Setback That Shook the Back Four
Gabriel’s woes trace back to the November international break. A nagging injury struck while on Brazil duty, sidelining him for over a month. Arteta confirmed in early December it was a “matter of weeks”. However, the defender’s disciplined rehab has kept him out of team sessions as recently as Tuesday. Arsenal’s set-piece prowess was once a weapon with Gabriel’s aerial dominance. However, it has now waned, contributing to just one clean sheet in five Premier League outings without him.
🚨Gabriel Magalhaes is set to return to full first-team training before the end of the year.
Internally, the club are hoping the Brazilian will be fit to face Aston Villa on 30th December. pic.twitter.com/3uEvfGG3p6
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) December 15, 2025
Steady Steps Toward the Pitch
Arsenal injury news are positive, Gabriel Magalhaes is progressing on a special recovery plan. He is expected to be fully ready to play in the first-team before the end of the year. There will be no Christmas miracles. He will not be able to play in Everton (Dec 20), in Palace (Dec 23), in Brighton (Dec 27). But the Villa game fitted the domestic schedules to a dot. Sources confirm that Arteta was cautious, indicating his reluctance to take any risks. He needs to be completely fit before going into this crowded program.
Reigniting the Title Charge
Gabriel’s return couldn’t come soon enough. Partnering William Saliba, his synergy has been Arsenal’s bedrock, conceding the league’s fewest goals last term. Against a Villa side lurking in third, his presence could blunt Ollie Watkins and restore that imperious edge. Arteta’s squad, battered by 100 injuries this season, desperately needs this boost to sustain their top-four tilt. Fans, hold your breath: the Magalhães magic might just light up the Emirates on Boxing Day’s eve.
As featured on GoonerNews.com