Arsenal centre-back Gabriel has been ruled out of action after sustaining a muscle injury in his right thigh, the Brazilian football federation (CBF) confirmed on Sunday. The setback occurred during Brazil’s friendly against Senegal on Saturday, played at the defender’s home ground in North London, where he was forced to leave the pitch.

The 27-year-old, a key figure for Premier League leaders Arsenal and ever-present in their league campaign so far, will not join the Brazilian squad for Tuesday’s friendly against Tunisia in Lille, according to the CBF. No timeline has yet been given for his recovery.

Gabriel previously missed more than three months earlier this year due to a hamstring problem, raising concern that he could face another extended period on the sidelines.

The injury represents a significant blow for Arsenal as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures, including derby clashes with Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea later this month. The Gunners also face Bayern Munich in a pivotal Champions League tie on November 26.

Gabriel’s absence deepens Arsenal’s defensive concerns, with fellow defender Riccardo Calafiori also picking up an injury during international duty, as confirmed by Italy manager Gennaro Gattuso on Saturday.

The squad has been further depleted by injuries to attackers Kai Havertz, Viktor Gyökeres, Noni Madueke, Gabriel Martinelli, and creative midfielder Martin Ødegaard. Meanwhile, striker Gabriel Jesus has returned to training after a cruciate ligament injury in January, but he has not yet made his competitive return.