Mikel Arteta reveals the Brazilian center-back is in a race against time to be fit for the weekend after picking up a knock in the midweek victory.
Arsenal faces an anxious wait over the fitness of defender Gabriel Magalhaes after manager Mikel Arteta revealed the Brazilian has been unable to train since picking up an injury in the crucial win over Atletico Madrid.
Despite a stellar performance where he scored and provided an assist, Gabriel was forced off the pitch in the 72nd minute. Speaking to the press on Friday, Arteta provided a concerning update, casting doubt on the defender’s availability for Sunday’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace.
“Not much, obviously big Gabi had to leave the pitch with an issue and he hasn’t been able to train yet,” Arteta said. “So let’s see how he evolves in the next 24 hours, whether he’s available or not for the weekend.”
If Gabriel is ruled out, summer signing Cristhian Mosquera is the likely candidate to step in and partner William Saliba in the heart of Arsenal’s defense. The 21-year-old, who joined from Valencia for £13 million, has already earned high praise from his manager for adapting quickly to the demands of the Premier League.
In more positive news, Arteta reported that the club’s long-term absentees—including Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, and Martin Odegaard—are all “progressing really well.” However, he tempered expectations, confirming that none are expected to return to contention within the next week.
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