Arsenal defender Gabriel out for weeks – Arteta

According to head coach Mikel Arteta, Gabriel will not play for “weeks” because of his thigh injury while on international duty.

The center-back was ruled out of the draw against Tunisia three days after limping off in visible discomfort during Brazil’s friendly against Senegal at Emirates Stadium last weekend.

The 27-year-old has been a key player in a defense that has allowed them to take a four-point lead at the top of the table so far this season. He has been in fantastic form for the Gunners.

When Arsenal host rivals Tottenham on Sunday (16:30 GMT), Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera could both serve as Gabriel’s replacement.

He’s our leader in our backline, so it’s obviously a blow, according to Arteta, who says “never a positive thing.”

The good news is that there are excellent options and that people must now stand up and carry out their duties.

Gabriel, a £23.1 million signing from Lille in 2020, has started all 11 of Arsenal’s Premier League games so far this season.

Due to a hip issue that prevented him from playing for Italy on international duty, Riccardo Califiori is a doubt for the north London derby.

Arteta says he will be given every chance to demonstrate his fitness even though the Italian hasn’t yet practiced since returning to London.

He has “been carrying a few things,” Arteta said.

He has not yet practiced. Let’s see how he is going with a second training session starting tomorrow.