Arsenal`s plans for the Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid are in disarray. It has been confirmed that center back Gabriel will be out for the rest of the season due to a serious hamstring injury.
The Brazilian player, considered by many as Arsenal`s best performer in the current season, was injured in the first half of their 2-1 victory over Fulham. This severe injury means he will be the third Arsenal player this season to require hamstring surgery. Bukayo Saka recently recovered from a similar muscle issue, while Kai Havertz has been sidelined since February and will also miss the rest of the season after his own surgery.
Arsenal stated that Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair his hamstring in the coming days and will immediately begin his rehabilitation program. The aim is for him to be ready for the start of next season. The club is focused on supporting Gabriel to ensure he returns to full fitness as soon as possible.
This injury to a key defender adds to Mikel Arteta`s concerns before the first leg against Real Madrid. Riccardo Calafiori is also expected to miss both legs due to a knee injury sustained during international duty. Ben White also missed Arsenal`s recent game due to knee discomfort. He has only made 16 appearances this season after undergoing surgery last November.
Arsenal is also awaiting final confirmation on the severity of another injury from the Fulham game. Jurrien Timber underwent scans for a knee issue after a collision. The club hopes the injury is not too serious.
Without Timber and White, Arsenal might have to use Thomas Partey at right back and Jakub Kiwior alongside William Saliba in central defense. This makeshift defense will face the challenge of stopping Real Madrid`s attacking stars like Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.
