Arsenal’s recent 2-1 victory over Fulham was overshadowed by injuries to key defenders Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber, casting a shadow over the team’s preparations for their upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Real Madrid.
Arteta confirms injury concerns for Gabriel and Timber before Champions League Quarter-Final
Gabriel, the steadfast Brazilian centre-back, pulled up with a hamstring issue just 15 minutes into the match at Emirates Stadium.
Despite receiving on-field treatment, he was unable to continue and was substituted by Jakub Kiwior.
Manager Mikel Arteta expressed concern post-match, stating, “Gabriel felt something in his hamstring. We don’t know how big that is.”
Jurrien Timber, who had recently returned from illness, also faced a setback. Around the 30-minute mark, Timber appeared in discomfort after stretching to block a shot from Fulham’s Raul Jimenez.
Although he initially continued, his discomfort persisted, leading to his substitution in the 77th minute, with Leandro Trossard coming on.
Arteta noted, “With Jurrien, he was already struggling early. He couldn’t continue.”
These injuries exacerbate Arsenal’s defensive woes, with Riccardo Calafiori and Ben White already sidelined due to knee problems.
This leaves the Gunners with limited options at the back as they prepare for one of their most significant matches of the season.
Arteta acknowledged the challenges, remarking, “Four players in one week. It’s a big blow, but we have to keep going.”
Despite these setbacks, the return of Bukayo Saka provided a silver lining. Coming off the bench, Saka made an immediate impact, scoring the decisive goal just seven minutes after his introduction.
His performance offers a glimmer of hope as Arsenal navigates this challenging period.
As the Gunners gear up for their clash against Real Madrid, the fitness of Gabriel and Timber remains uncertain.
The coming days will be crucial in assessing their availability and determining how Arsenal will adapt to these defensive challenges on the European stage.
