Arsenal defender Gabriel forced off injured ahead of Real Madrid clash

Arsenal defender Gabriel was forced off with a suspected hamstring injury during Tuesday’s clash against Fulham – just a week before the Gunners’ crucial meeting with Real Madrid.

The Brazilian lasted only 15 minutes before being substituted, with Jakub Kiwior coming on in his place. If the injury proves to be serious, Kiwior could see an increased role in the coming games.

Gabriel is now a major doubt for Arsenal’s Premier League trip to Everton on Saturday, with little recovery time before the fixture.

Ben White was ruled out of the game after sustaining a knock in training.

”He had a little niggle two days ago,” Arteta said of the right-back pre-match.

“Yesterday we tried, he wasn’t feeling right, so we decided not to put him in the squad today.”

Arsenal travel to Everton this weekend before hosting Real Madrid in north London just three days later.

They continue to be without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, both sidelined due to season-ending injuries.

Gabriel has been a crucial part of the defensive setup, partnering with William Saliba to form one of the most formidable defenses in the league.

A potential boost for Arsenal is the return of Bukayo Saka to the matchday squad.

Saka has not featured for Arsenal in 2025, having suffered a hamstring injury last year

He was named to the bench against Fulham after a nearly four-month absence. Mikel Arteta had previously hinted that there was a possibility of Saka starting the match.

“We have respected the time frame, we have done everything and we have to hold him back even,” the head coach said on Monday. “So he’s ready to go.”