Mikel Arteta provides cryptic replace on injured star forward of Premier League conflict
Mikel Arteta played his cards close to his chest when quizzed about Gabriel Magalhaes’ fitness ahead of Arsenal‘s Premier League clash with West Ham.
The Gunners’ boss was tight-lipped following Gabriel’s injury in the dying moments of their 5-1 thrashing of Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday. The centre-back netted a goal in a dazzling display for Arsenal in Portugal but hobbled off in the 84th minute, replaced by Jakob Kiwior due to injury concerns.
In his post-match presser, Arteta labelled the problem as “some discomfort” and remained coy on Friday morning. With Arsenal set to make the short trip to the London Stadium for Saturday’s showdown against West Ham, the Brazilian’s condition is still up in the air.
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“Not a lot because we have another training session,” Arteta responded when probed about team injuries. “We have to see how the boys are. A few weren’t able to train.”
When pressed on whether Gabriel would be fit, he simply said: “Wait and see.”, reports the Mirror.
(Image: FILIPE AMORIM/AFP via Getty Images)
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Gabriel has been a stalwart for Arsenal this term, racking up 18 appearances and bagging three goals across all competitions. His solid duo with William Saliba has been pivotal to Arsenal’s impressive form, and Arteta is eager to have him in the squad for Saturday.
Arteta recounted Tuesday’s incident, saying: “We had to make the change because he was feeling some discomfort. I was about to make the change for Raz [Raheem Sterling], poor thing, I couldn’t make the sub. We had to get him out.”
If Gabriel’s out this Saturday, Arteta might draft in Jurrien Timber who’s back in top form. Speaking on the Dutch defender, Arteta shared: “For sure. At that level as well.
“We know what he can produce. He’s a player with exceptional qualities and a lot of leadership and the intention and purpose that he plays with.”
