Arsenal have been dealt a significant blow during the international break, with several first-team players pulling out of their national squads due to fitness concerns.

Brazilian centre-back Gabriel Magalhães will not represent Brazil in their upcoming friendly matches after medical evaluations revealed an issue with his right knee. Although he recently featured in Arsenal’s clash against Manchester City, discomfort following the match led to further tests, ultimately ruling him out of international action, reports alldaysport.net

Brazil’s coaching staff confirmed that Gabriel will remain in London to focus on recovery, and no replacement will be added to the squad for the matches against France and Croatia.

Arsenal’s defensive concerns extend beyond Gabriel, as his teammate William Saliba has also been sidelined. The French international is dealing with an ankle issue that requires a short recovery period, forcing him to miss France’s upcoming fixtures.

The injury list continues with Jurrien Timber, who remains unavailable after sustaining an ankle injury earlier this month during a Premier League encounter against Everton. Similarly, Eberechi Eze has withdrawn from England duty due to a calf problem picked up in European competition.

Meanwhile, Belgian winger Leandro Trossard will also skip international matches as he continues to manage a lingering hip issue. Despite making progress in his recovery, Arsenal’s medical team has opted for caution to prevent further complications.

With multiple players now focusing on rehabilitation rather than international appearances, Arsenal will be hoping to have their squad close to full strength when they return to action in early April for their FA Cup quarter-final tie against Southampton.

These injury setbacks come at a crucial stage of the season, raising concerns for Arsenal as they prepare for important domestic and European fixtures ahead./ALLDAYSPORT/