- Gabriel Magalhães is set to undergo surgery for a hamstring injury.
- The Brazilian defender aims to return by the start of the 2025-26 season.
- Arsenal’s defensive record has been impacted by Gabriel’s absence in past matches.
- Arsenal are currently second in the Premier League and preparing for a Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.
Gabriel Set for Surgery After Hamstring Injury
Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães will undergo surgery on his hamstring in the coming days after being substituted in the first half of their 2-1 win over Fulham on Tuesday at the Emirates Stadium. The 27-year-old defender, who has played a key role in Arsenal’s defense this season, is expected to miss the remainder of the campaign but is targeting a return for the start of the 2025-26 season.
The club confirmed the surgery and noted that Gabriel would begin his rehabilitation immediately.
“Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure to his hamstring and will begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, aiming for a return by next season,” Arsenal said in a statement.
Arsenal’s Defensive Record Could Be Affected
Gabriel has been a central figure in Arsenal’s defense, helping the team secure the best defensive record in the Premier League, with only 25 goals conceded so far. However, his absence could prove costly for the Gunners.
Statistics from Premier League Injuries reveal that Arsenal’s win percentage drops significantly when Gabriel is not in the lineup. The club wins 63.5% of the games he plays, but that figure falls to just 40.9% when he’s absent.
Hamstring Injuries on the Rise in the Premier League
This injury marks the 119th hamstring injury in the Premier League this season, with an average of four such injuries occurring every match week. Last season also saw a high number of hamstring injuries, with a total of 163 reported — the most in five years.
Arsenal’s Current Standings and Upcoming Fixtures
Arsenal are currently in second place in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by 12 points with only eight matches remaining. The Gunners will face defending Champions League winners Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, with the first leg scheduled for April 8 at the Emirates and the second leg on April 16 at the Bernabeu.
As Arsenal prepares for these crucial matches, Gabriel’s recovery will be closely monitored as the team aims to secure a strong finish to the season.
