Arsenal Learn Extent of Gabriel’s Injury from Liverpool Game

Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes has reportedly avoided a serious injury after being forced off during the 2-2 draw with Liverpool. The Gunners were already missing William Saliba, who was serving a suspension following a red card in the Bournemouth match. Gabriel had to leave the game early in the second half due to an issue that prevented him from running, with initial uncertainty over whether it was a knee or ankle problem.

Subsequent medical assessments, as reported by The Times, revealed no major damage. However, Gabriel is expected to miss the Carabao Cup clash with Preston North End and may remain sidelined for upcoming fixtures against Newcastle United, Inter, and Chelsea before the November international break. A specific timeline for his return has not been set.

Gabriel had played every minute of the current Premier League and Champions League campaigns before the injury and was also ever-present in the 2022/23 season, having not missed a game through injury since August 2021. His partnership with Saliba has been key to Arsenal’s strong defensive record.

Arteta will need to manage without several defensive options, with summer signing Riccardo Calafiori also injured and Jurrien Timber recently experiencing cramp after returning from a brief absence. Jakub Kiwior, who replaced Gabriel against Liverpool, may start against Preston, while Ben White, who covered for Saliba at the weekend, could continue in the lineup.