Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes will miss the remainder of the season following a hamstring injury that requires surgery. The setback leaves the Gunners facing further defensive challenges, particularly with their upcoming Champions League quarterfinal against Real Madrid just around the corner.
Injury Update: Gabriel Magalhaes’s Surgery
Magalhaes sustained the injury during Arsenal’s 2-1 victory over Fulham in the Premier League on Tuesday. The Brazilian defender will undergo surgery in the coming days to repair his hamstring, with hopes of returning for the start of next season. Arsenal confirmed the news in an official statement on Thursday.
The loss of Magalhaes is a major blow to Arsenal’s defensive options, especially ahead of their crucial Champions League clash with Real Madrid. The Gunners are also dealing with injury concerns for several other defenders, including Riccardo Calafiori, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Ben White. Right-back Jurrien Timber also picked up a pre-match issue before the Fulham game, adding to manager Mikel Arteta’s defensive headaches.
Arsenal’s injury woes don’t end with Magalhaes. Midfielders Martin Ødegaard and Kai Havertz, along with star forward Bukayo Saka, have also been sidelined for extended periods this season. Havertz is out for the rest of the season due to a hamstring injury, while Saka made his long-awaited return to action on Tuesday after over four months on the sidelines.
Premier League and Champions League Focus
Arsenal currently sits second in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool with just eight games remaining. As they prepare for their Champions League quarterfinals, Arteta’s squad will need to cope with these defensive issues to continue their push for success in both competitions.
