Arsenal are awaiting a full diagnosis on the thigh injury sustained by defender Gabriel during international duty, with fears he could be sidelined for several weeks, according to BBC Sport.
The Brazilian centre-back was forced off in clear discomfort during Brazil’s friendly against Senegal at the Emirates Stadium over the weekend and has since returned to London for further medical evaluation.
Initial indications suggest the 27-year-old may be out for at least four weeks, with some sources warning his recovery could stretch into January.
The exact extent of the damage will be determined after a series of assessments in the coming days.
Gabriel’s likely absence is a major setback for Mikel Arteta ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with fierce rivals Tottenham.
The defender has been instrumental this season, forming a strong partnership with William Saliba at the heart of a back line that has conceded only five league goals.
Should he be ruled out, Piero Hincapié and Cristhian Mosquera are expected to battle for his spot.
Despite leading the Premier League, Arsenal’s campaign has been hampered by injuries to key players. Captain Martin Ødegaard, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyökeres are all currently sidelined but could return soon, depending on medical clearance ahead of the North London Derby.
