Arsenal Star Gabriel Eyes Comeback: Latest Injury Update and Return Timeline Revealed
Arsenal find themselves dealing with another injury setback during the November international window as key defender Gabriel has joined an expanding list of players in the medical bay.
During Brazil's appearance at the Emirates Stadium, the 27-year-old was substituted in the latter stages of their 2-0 friendly victory against Senegal on November 15. Understandably, Arsenal fans will be concerned about the implications as they pursue Premier League success and their maiden Champions League triumph.
Gabriel has been instrumental to Arsenal's campaign this term, excelling in a solid defensive unit and making notable contributions in attack from dead-ball situations. The Gunners cannot afford to be without the central defender during the busy holiday schedule.
Below is the most recent update on the Arsenal player's fitness status.
What Injury Does Gabriel Have?
Everything was proceeding smoothly for Gabriel in north London during the match against Senegal, but circumstances shifted dramatically shortly after the 60-minute mark. The Arsenal star suddenly pulled up without contact and was subsequently hobbling off the Emirates pitch with a visibly worried expression.
The Brazil national squad later revealed that Gabriel had sustained a groin problem during the Senegal encounter, compounding his recent fitness struggles. The defender has missed a combined 19 fixtures for club and country due to three different injuries in 2024-25, with his unavailability proving detrimental at crucial moments for the Gunners.
When Will Gabriel Return From Injury?
Gabriel's return timeline remains unclear, with Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti acknowledging his uncertainty regarding the extent of the centre-back's problem following the match in London.
"Serious? I'm not sure. He sustained an adductor injury," commented the Italian manager.
"We feel terrible about this situation, truly disappointed. When any player gets injured, you wish for their quick and complete recovery."
Adductor problems can take anywhere from weeks to months to fully heal based on the severity of the muscle strain. Considering Arsenal's challenging fixture list ahead, Mikel Arteta will undoubtedly hope for Gabriel's rapid return to fitness.
Arsenal face a demanding period following the international break, beginning with the significant north London derby at home against Tottenham Hotspur on November 23. Arteta's squad then welcomes Bayern Munich in Champions League action, before making the trip across London to face bitter rivals Chelsea.