Arsenal have been dealt a worrying injury blow ahead of the Premier League's return next week.
The Gunners return to domestic action as they welcome Tottenham Hotspur to the Emirates Stadium for the North London Derby on Sunday afternoon, a huge contest for both sets of supporters.
Mikel Arteta's side are top of the table having won eight of their 11 matches so far and picking up 26 points from just 11 games. In addition to this, they've conceded just five goals along the way so far. However, with the derby clash in their sights, the Spaniard now look set to be without one of their most important stars ahead of the contest.
Gabriel Magalhaes Leaves Arsenal Fans Sweating
gabriel magalhaes
Arsenal will be worrying about the availability of Gabriel Magalhaes following a huge setback on international duty. The central defender was featuring for Brazil in a friendlly against Senegal on Saturday afternoon in a clash that was played at the Gunners' Emirates Stadium.
But despite strutting his stuff on home turf, Gabriel pulled up in serious discomfort during the second half of the game. While it's unclear exactly what the injury is, the defender was clutching the top of his right leg which indicated a potential groin injury. He was then subbed off and replaced by Wesley in a 2-0 win for the South American giants.
After a prolonged period of treatment, Gabriel hobbled towards the bench and looked to be in notable discomfort.
For Arsenal, the news will be a huge worry. The 27-year-old has been a key player for Arteta this term with him and William Saliba forging the central defensive partnership that has laid the foundations for such a stunning defensive record.
It also comes after Riccardo Calafiori was let go from Italy's international camp with injury fears.
Conceding just five goals in the Premier League, the Gunners' defence has played a huge part in the club' position at the top of the table with the north London side firm favourites to win the trophy.
While Gabriel's injury was a big blow for Arsenal, there was good news for Chelsea and Manchester United with Estevao and Casemiro scoring the two goals to secure the 2-0 win over Senegal.