Arsenal have suffered a major setback just days before their crucial Champions League quarter-final match against Real Madrid. Defender Gabriel Magalhães has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury that requires surgery.
The Brazilian centre-back sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Fulham on Tuesday. He went down in the 16th minute at the Emirates Stadium and was unable to continue, leaving the pitch in visible discomfort. After further medical evaluation, it was determined that surgery would be necessary.
In an official statement on Thursday, the club confirmed the news: “Further to being substituted during our match against Fulham on Tuesday, we can confirm that Gabriel Magalhaes has sustained a hamstring injury which requires surgery.” Arsenal also added that “Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure to his hamstring in the coming days, and immediately begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, with the aim to be ready for the start of next season.”
The timing of Gabriel’s injury is a huge blow for Arsenal as they prepare to face Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarter-final next Tuesday. The Gunners will have to cope without one of their key defensive figures in what is expected to be a tough encounter against the Spanish giants.
Gabriel has been a vital part of Arsenal’s backline in recent seasons, helping them maintain the best defensive record in the Premier League this campaign. The North London club has conceded just 25 goals in 30 league games. Despite this strong defensive performance, Arsenal remain in second place, trailing league leaders Liverpool by 12 points with eight matches remaining.
