**Arsenal have been dealt a fresh concern after their defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, with Gabriel Magalhães now ruled out of Brazil duty following that game.**
The Gunners went into Sunday’s final knowing silverware was within reach, but came up short against Pep Guardiola’s side. It was a setback, yet it does little to change the broader picture of Arsenal’s season. Mikel Arteta’s side remain firmly in the fight across multiple fronts, with the Premier League title race still alive and a deep FA Cup run ahead.
That context makes Gabriel’s situation more relevant. The Brazilian has been one of Arsenal’s most important players this season. He has been a constant presence at centre-back, forming a strong partnership and offering both defensive reliability and threat from set pieces.
According to data from FBref, Gabriel has again ranked among Arsenal’s top performers for clearances, aerial duels won and defensive actions per 90. He has also chipped in with crucial goals, underlining his value at both ends of the pitch.
### **Injury concern after Wembley**
It was during the final against Manchester City that the issue emerged. Gabriel complained of pain in his right knee after the match, raising immediate concern.
The [**Brazilian FA**](https://x.com/CBF_Futebol/status/2036094080833208358?s=20) just confirmed the defender has been withdrawn from the squad for the upcoming friendlies against France and Croatia.
A statement from the CBF read: _“The defender Gabriel Magalhães, from Arsenal, is out of the friendlies against France and Croatia. After Sunday’s match against Manchester City, the player reported pain in his right knee.”_
They added: _“Imaging tests showed that Gabriel Magalhães is not fit for the matches in this international break. No replacement will be called up.”_
### **What it means for Arsenal**
From Arsenal’s perspective, there is at least some relief in the timing. The international break now offers Gabriel a window to recover without missing club matches immediately.
Arteta’s side are not back in action until April 4, when they face Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-finals. That gives the medical staff time to assess the injury properly and manage his recovery.
Still, any issue involving Gabriel will be watched closely. Arsenal are entering a decisive stretch of the season, and his role in their defensive structure is difficult to replace.
If the problem proves minor, the break may come at the perfect time. If not, it could become a factor in Arsenal’s push for trophies over the coming weeks.