Gabriel injury: Who will play for Arsenal against Real Madrid? | OneFootball

Arsenal have been dealt another big injury blow after defender Gabriel was ruled out for the season with a hamstring injury.

The 27-year-old sustained the injury in the 2-1 win over Fulham and will now undergo surgery.

He joins Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Takehiro Tomiyasu on the long-term injury list and means he will miss Arsenal’s huge Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.

Riccardo Calafiori also remains out too with a knew injury while Ben White missed out against Fulham with a knock. Jurrien Timber had to come off during the game after taking a knock too.

So how will Arsenal line up in Gabriel’s absence and who could play instead?

Here’s how we think Arsenal will set up against the Spanish giants…

Goalkeeper: David Raya

The ever dependable Raya will start against Real Madrid following another impressive season as Arsenal’s number one.

Right-back: Jurrien Timber

Timber battled on after taking a knock against Fulham before coming off late on. It is not yet clear whether the issue will keep him out but for the time being, he is the likely choice at right-back.

Right centre-back: William Saliba

Gabriel’s defensive partner now has even more responsibility on his shoulders following his team-mate’s injury.

Left centre-back: Jakub Kiwior

With injury problems in defence, it looks like Kiwior will get a chance to shine in Arsenal’s biggest game of the season so far. He has struggled at times this season and not getting a run of games has not helped but Arteta desperately needs a performance from him.

Left-back: Myles Lewis-Skelly

Has already proven he can handle the big occasions and has been one of the shining lights of Arsenal’s season.

Holding midfield: Thomas Partey

Partey will most likely play in his usual holding role against Madrid and will no doubt have his hands full with the wealth of attacking talent they have.

Right central-midfield: Martin Odegaard

The creative midfielder has admitted he has not been at his best this season but has the perfect chance to show how good he truly is against his former club Real.

Left central-midfield: Declan Rice

Arsenal’s Mr Reliable. The Gunners will need a big performance from him if they are to progress.

Right-wing: Bukayo Saka

Only just back from injury, it might be a risk to throw him into the starting line-up but Arsenal need him.

Striker: Mikel Merino

Arsenal’s unlikely centre-forward has done more than a good job in an unfamiliar role and will likely continue in that position.

Left-wing: Gabriel Martinelli

Looked dangerous against Fulham and Arteta will hope he can continue that form against Madrid.