Gabriel Magalhães has pulled out of Brazil’s squad for their upcoming international fixtures after picking up a knee injury on Sunday.
Arsenal head into the international break as their objective of winning a first Premier League title in 22 years edges ever closer. Mikel Arteta’s side sit nine points clear of Manchester City, albeit having played a game more.
The Gunners fell short at the final hurdle on Sunday, as their Carabao Cup campaign ended with a dismal 2-0 loss to Pep Guardiola’s side.
Over the break, nursing several players back to full fitness will be a priority, as their Premier League, Champions League and FA Cup ambitions continue.
Gabriel picks up knee injury following Carabao Cup disappointment
On Monday, the Brazilian Football Confederation announced that Gabriel would not join up with his international teammates for their games against France and Croatia, citing a right knee issue.
He becomes the latest Arsenal player to withdraw from international duty, following William Saliba, Eberechi Eze, Leandro Trossard and Martin Ødegaard.
The season so far has been one of toil for the Gunners, with the impact of balancing a heavily congested fixture schedule taking its toll.
With a two week break about to commence, it is evident that, for Mikel Arteta, the welfare of his players is paramount.
Crucial run of fixtures will define Arsenal’s season
It is easy to understand why, with such an important stretch of the season remaining, several of Arsenal’s first team have opted to focus on their fitness back in London.
The Gunners take on Southampton in the FA Cup quarter-final on the 4th of April, before meeting Sporting across two legs in the Champions League quarter-final.
Their pursuit of the Premier League also faces a stern test with an early kick-off against Bournemouth on the 11th of April, followed by a blockbuster encounter at the Etihad with Manchester City.
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With the eagerly anticipated title showdown looming, the return of Ødegaard and Eze will be crucial in light of Arsenal’s struggles in possession on Sunday.