Gabriel Magalhaes injury scare: Arsenal defender allays fears after Brazil win

Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has not suffered an injury after he was forced off during Brazil’s victory over Bolivia.

The 25-year-old was replaced in the closing stages of Friday night’s World Cup qualifier with Brazil cruising to a 5-1 victory, seen with an ice pack strapped to his right thigh as he sat among the substitutes.

The injury scare prompted concern among Arsenal fans but latest reports from Brazil suggest the decision to replace him late on Friday was merely precautionary.

Globo Esporte report Gabriel underwent scans on his right thigh after complaining of ‘muscle pain’ which revealed no injury.

Gabriel Magalhaes set to feature against Peru

He could even feature in Tuesday’s clash against Peru with head coach Fernando Diniz planning to use the same starting XI that eased to victory over Bolivia.

That will also mean starting roles for fellow Premier League stars Ederson, Casemiro, Bruno Guimaraes and Richarlison.

Gabriel was left out of Mikel Arteta’s starting XI for the first three games of the Premier League season with Ben White selected to start alongside William Saliba at the heart of defence with Thomas Partey deployed in a right-back role.

Thomas Partey injury forces Arsenal rethink

An injury for Partey forced Arteta into a rethink for the clash with Manchester United before the international break, with Gabriel returning to the side to resume last season’s successful partnership with Saliba.

The Brazilian helped Arsenal seal a 3-1 victory over United with Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus scoring in injury time.

With Partey and summer signing Jurrien Timber sidelined, Gabriel will hope to retain his place in the side with Arsenal resuming their league campaign against Everton on Sunday.

Gabriel Magalhaes linked with move away from Arsenal

The Gunners then kick off their Champions League return against PSV Eindhoven on Wednesday 20 September before the first north London derby of the season against Tottenham at the Emirates four days later.

Gabriel was linked with a move away from Arsenal in the final stages of the summer transfer window with Saudi Arabian clubs linked with his services.

Arteta however dismissed the possibility of any move, insisting the former Lille star remains ‘very important’ to his plans.

Conclusion

Gabriel Magalhaes has allayed fears of an injury after being forced off during Brazil’s victory over Bolivia. Reports from Brazil suggest the decision to replace him late on Friday was merely precautionary and he could even feature in Tuesday’s clash against Peru. The Arsenal defender has returned to Mikel Arteta’s starting XI following an injury to Thomas Partey and will hope to retain his place in the side as Arsenal resume their league campaign against Everton on Sunday.