Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhães has pulled out of Brazil’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies after picking up a knee injury during Arsenal’s Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City.
The defender played the full 90 minutes in the 2-0 loss at Wembley but reportedly felt pain in his right knee after the match.
Following medical assessments, Gabriel has been ruled out of Brazil’s friendly fixtures against France national football team on March 26 and Croatia national football team on March 31.
In a statement, the Brazilian football authorities confirmed that imaging tests showed the player is unfit to participate during the international break. No replacement has been named for the defender.
Gabriel’s withdrawal adds to Arsenal’s growing injury concerns, as he becomes the third player from the club to miss international duty this period.
Earlier, William Saliba withdrew from the France squad due to an ankle injury, while Eberechi Eze was also ruled out of England’s squad with a calf problem.
The latest setback will be a concern for both Arsenal and Brazil as they manage player fitness during a demanding season.
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