Mikel Arteta has revealed that Gabriel Magalhaes is a doubt for Arsenal’s game against Crystal Palace on Sunday.
The Gunners entertain a Palace side who have failed to win each of their last three matches, following an impressive 19-match unbeaten run.
Arsenal thrashed Atletico Madrid 4-0 in midweek, courtesy of a header from Gabriel, an excellent finish from Gabriel Martinelli and an awkward brace from Viktor Gyokeres.
Gabriel was withdrawn for Cristhian Mosquera with 20 minutes left to play, slightly hobbling off the pitch.
Arteta will be desperate for the Brazilian centre-back to be fit and available for the Palace encounter, although the early signs aren’t particularly encouraging.
Mikel Arteta says Gabriel Magalhaes is a doubt for Crystal Palace clash
Gabriel has become one of Arsenal’s most important players in recent years.
Not only is he a huge threat from set-piece situations, he’s also established himself as the leader of the Gunners’ backline.
Thus, it’ll be a significant blow for Arteta if the defender is not available on Sunday. Speaking in his press conference on Friday morning, the Spaniard revealed that Gabriel is yet to train since the Atletico match.
“Big Gabi had to leave the pitch with an issue, and he hasn’t been able to train yet,” he said.
“Let’s see how he trains over the next 24 hours.”
Arteta could hand Piero Hincapie a first start in a red and white shirt if Gabriel isn’t deemed fit enough to be involved.
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