Mikel Arteta has acknowledged a concern regarding Gabriel Magalhaes’ fitness, which emerged during the international break.
The 25-year-old defender earned his first full cap for Brazil as they began their World Cup qualifying campaign against Bolivia.
However, anxiety arose when he was seen applying an ice pack to his thigh after being substituted around the 85th minute.
Despite these worries, initial scans did not reveal any severe injury. Gabriel went on to play the entire 90 minutes in Brazil’s 1-0 victory over Peru just four days later.
Furthermore, he participated in Arsenal’s training session at London Colney ahead of their upcoming Premier League clash against Everton.
Nevertheless, Arteta emphasized the need for vigilance in monitoring the Brazilian’s condition in the coming weeks.
“We have good contact with the national teams,” Arteta stated during his pre-match press conference.
“Gabby had a little issue but he managed to play the second game, so it’s something obviously for the next sequence of matches we have to be aware.”
Arsenal faces a congested fixture list, including Champions League and Carabao Cup commitments, over the next four weeks. With defensive options thin due to the absence of Jurrien Timber and Thomas Partey, losing Gabriel for any period would be a significant blow.
On a positive note, Mohamed Elneny’s return to training is on the horizon after a lengthy absence due to a knee injury sustained in January.
Arteta expressed his delight at the prospect of having Elneny back in the squad and highlighted his importance as a “glue player” who unites the team.
“He has been training with us, he had a little niggle in his hamstring a few weeks ago and he is back in training now,” Arteta said.
“Obviously it’s been a long-term injury, the latter stages of that rehab right now and then it’s about building momentum and game time with him.”
Elneny is unlikely to feature in Sunday’s match against Everton, but his return to the matchday squad is anticipated soon.
Additionally, Bukayo Saka is expected to be available despite a minor knock sustained while on England duty. Arsenal will be closely monitoring their players’ fitness as they navigate a demanding fixture schedule.
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