Arsenal are preparing for their upcoming Premier League clash against Crystal Palace as they continue their pursuit of silverware this season. The Gunners have assembled a strong squad with several key players, but one of their most important defenders, Gabriel Magalhaes, could be a doubt for the fixture due to injury concerns.
Gabriel sustained a minor issue during Arsenal’s previous match, which forced him to leave the pitch prematurely. Since then, the Brazilian centre-back has not been in full training, only returning to the pitch on Friday. His availability for the game against Palace will depend on how he performs during the final training sessions before the match.
Mikel Arteta addressed the situation when speaking, as cited by Football Insider, saying, “Big Gabi had to leave the pitch with an issue, and he hasn’t been able to train yet. Let’s see how he trains over the next 24 hours.” His words suggest that the medical and coaching staff will make a late decision regarding Gabriel’s inclusion, prioritising his long-term fitness over any short-term risk.
Depth and Defensive Options
Gabriel has been a vital component of Arsenal’s defensive structure, offering consistency and physical presence at the back. Losing him, even temporarily, would be a significant setback. However, the club appear well-prepared to cope with such situations. Cristhian Mosquera has impressed when called upon, showing composure and maturity beyond his years, while Piero Hincapie continues to wait patiently for his opportunity to feature more prominently in the starting line-up.
If Gabriel is not fully fit, Arsenal are unlikely to force his participation, preferring to rely on the depth within their defensive ranks. Arteta’s approach emphasises the importance of squad rotation and player welfare, particularly in a demanding season where the team are competing on multiple fronts.
Maintaining Momentum Against Palace
Crystal Palace are expected to provide a stern test, known for their resilience and disciplined defensive play. Arsenal will need to remain focused and clinical if they are to secure all three points. Regardless of who starts in defence, every player in the squad understands the importance of maintaining momentum in the title race. With strong competition for places and a collective determination to perform, the Gunners will aim to continue their winning run while ensuring that key players like Gabriel recover fully before returning to action.
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Well with the squad we’ve now got, caution is the way to go. Any doubts, play another player. This gives said player more recovery time.
Also you need to show trust in your squad, otherwise what’s the point of having them. 🤷♂️
Hope Arteta wouldn’t force him to play,Odegaard and Saliba played when they weren’t fit and ended up damaging themselves but luckily Saliba is fit now Odegaard on the other side is yet to resume training so hope he wouldn’t let Gabriel play.
Ødegaard & Saliba were not injured due to Arteta forcing them to play.
Oh really remember the Liverpool game where Saliba twisted is ankle and instead of Arteta taking precaution he ended up starting him and Saliba collapsed before the 20th minute , same case to Odegaard he just come from injury and instead of him sitting on the bench so that he comes in as a substitute Arteta started him immediately and ended up getting a knock of his knee before 35th minute and ended up being replaced.
Saliba admitted that he said he felt OK to play, which Arteta confirmed, and Ødegaard collided knee on knee with another player. Staying on the bench would obviously have prevented this, but it had nothing to do with his fitness. Arteta does not force his players onto the pitch.