Mikel Arteta has insisted that Arsenal can navigate a challenging period without their defensive linchpin, Gabriel, who is expected to be sidelined for several weeks due to injury.

Gabriel sustained a thigh injury while playing for Brazil in their match against Senegal and is set for further evaluations. Initial assessments suggested a lengthy absence but details are still unclear.

Arteta stated, “He’s going to be out for weeks. We need to have another scan to clarify the recovery timeline. Losing him is certainly a setback, as he is our leader in defense. Still, we do have quality substitutes who must rise to the occasion now.”

“He’s going to be out for weeks,” Arteta said. (Translation: He will be out for weeks.)

Additionally, Riccardo Calafiori’s availability for the upcoming North London derby against Tottenham remains uncertain as he missed training sessions during the recent international break. Calafiori was sent back to Arsenal by the Italian national team after suffering a thigh injury.

Arteta added, “He has been carrying injuries, and we had to pull him back. He’s yet to train. Let’s see how he responds in training tomorrow.”

“He’s been carrying a few things, and we had to bring him back,” Arteta noted. (Translation: He has been dealing with some issues.)

The injuries come at a time when Arsenal’s attacking options seem to be returning, adding to the frustration for Arteta. The squad is working to maintain its strength with pivotal matches looming, to ensure a strong performance against Tottenham.