Arsenal’s Gabriel goes off injured in Brazil friendly win
LONDON – Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães was forced off with a thigh issue during Brazil’s 2-0 friendly win over Senegal on Tuesday, raising concerns for the Premier League club after his strong start to the season.
The 27-year-old centre back went down shortly before the hour mark at the Emirates Stadium and received treatment on his right thigh before Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti replaced him. Ancelotti said after the match that the extent of the problem remains unclear.
“I don’t know if Gabriel is injured,” Ancelotti told reporters. “I think he felt something in his adductor. He’ll be examined tomorrow. We’re very sad he felt that, and we hope he recovers quickly.”
Gabriel has been a central figure in Arsenal’s league campaign, anchoring a defence that has conceded just five goals in 11 Premier League matches. His potential absence would pose a setback for manager Mikel Arteta, who has relied on the Brazilian’s aerial dominance, composure under pressure and improving distribution.
Brazil secured the win through first-half goals from Chelsea winger Estêvão and Manchester United midfielder Casemiro, who struck from a free-kick.
The injury comes amid a busy period for Arsenal, who are balancing domestic and European commitments. A prolonged spell on the sidelines for Gabriel would test the club’s defensive depth and disrupt the stability that has underpinned their early-season form.