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Gabriel Magalhães suffered a worrying injury during Brazil’s international friendly against Senegal on November 15, 2025, and left the pitch in clear pain after just 28 minutes. The Arsenal centre-back went down unchallenged following a routine duel and immediately signalled to the bench. Medical staff rushed on, and Gabriel walked off unaided but with a visible limp. Brazil confirmed he will undergo scans in London today to determine the extent of the problem.
The incident occurred when Gabriel stretched for a header. He landed awkwardly and clutched the back of his right thigh. Dorival Júnior replaced him instantly with Lyon’s Murillo. Brazil still dominated and won 2-0 through goals from Raphinha and Endrick, but the spotlight quickly shifted to Gabriel’s condition.
Arsenal supporters held their breath. The 27-year-old has started every Premier League match this season and forms the league’s sturdiest defensive partnership with William Saliba. Any significant absence would derail the Gunners’ title charge, especially with a packed December fixture list approaching. Mikel Arteta already manages without injured duo Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu.
Brazilian reports initially described the issue as a muscular problem in the hamstring area. Gabriel avoided crutches after the game and travelled back to London overnight. Arsenal’s medical team will conduct detailed MRI scans this morning. Sources close to the club express cautious optimism that the injury is not a full tear, but confirmation will only come after today’s results.
Arteta faces anxious hours. He repeatedly praises Gabriel as “irreplaceable” and “a warrior.” Last season the Brazilian missed only three league games and contributed four goals from defence. His aerial dominance and ball-playing composure remain vital to Arsenal’s high line and build-up play.
Senegal coach Aliou Cissé offered sympathy post-match. He called Gabriel “one of the best centre-backs in the world” and wished him a speedy recovery. Team-mate Bruno Guimarães consoled Gabriel on the pitch and later posted support on social media.
