Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham was a much-needed result to keep their slim title hopes alive, but the victory came with a concerning setback. Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhães was forced off early in the first half with a hamstring injury, leaving Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal fans anxiously awaiting further updates.
### **Arteta Provides Update on Gabriel**
Speaking after the game, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta addressed Gabriel’s injury, admitting that the extent of the issue remains unclear.
_“He felt something in his hamstring. We don’t know (how bad),”_ Arteta told reporters.
The Brazilian defender appeared to be in discomfort as he left the pitch, and while Arsenal managed to see out the victory without him, his potential absence could be a major concern in the coming weeks.
### **A Crucial Blow for Arsenal’s Defense**
Gabriel has been a rock at the back for Arsenal this season, forming a formidable partnership with William Saliba. His aggressive defending, aerial presence, and leadership have been instrumental in Arsenal’s title charge. Losing him at such a crucial stage of the campaign could disrupt Arteta’s defensive plans.
With key fixtures on the horizon, including their upcoming Champions League tie against Real Madrid, Arsenal will be hoping that Gabriel’s injury is not serious. A hamstring issue could range from a minor strain to a longer-term setback, and the club’s medical staff will assess him in the coming days.
### **Who Could Step Up in Gabriel’s Absence?**
If Gabriel is sidelined, Arteta may need to reshuffle his defensive setup. Possible replacements include:
* **Jakub Kiwior** – The Polish international has provided solid cover when called upon and could be given an opportunity to step into the starting XI.
* **Oleksandr Zinchenko** – While primarily a left-back, Zinchenko’s ability to play in different defensive roles could give Arteta another option.
### **A Nervous Wait for Arsenal**
Gabriel’s injury adds to Arsenal’s growing list of fitness concerns, with key players like Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Jesus, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Kai Havertz already sidelined. Arteta will be hoping for positive news in the coming days, as Arsenal cannot afford to lose more key personnel at this stage of the season.
The Gunners travel to Everton next for a tricky away fixture before turning their attention to the Champions League. Gabriel’s availability for those matches remains uncertain, and fans will be eager for an update.
For now, Arsenal celebrate their win over Fulham, but the potential loss of one of their most reliable defenders casts a shadow over the result.