The North London club worry that center-back Gabriel Magalhães might remain unavailable for a minimum of four weeks after sustaining a thigh injury while on international duty recently.
The Brazilian defender was forced off during the Seleção's win against Senegal in a exhibition match at the North London venue on Saturday and has since gone back to his team for further examinations.
Medical tests are still underway, and the club have yet to confirm the exact extent of the defender's layoff.
Nevertheless, he is not anticipated to be available for the key clash with Tottenham on Sunday or the European meeting with Bayern Munich just later.
Potential Absence and Key Matches
There are concerns that the defender could be out for at least four weeks, possibly longer, depending on the extent of the issue.
That could see him miss of key vital matches, including:
- Premier League matches against Chelsea and the Bees at home
- An road match to face Villa
- The European match at Brugge on December 10th
The Arsenal side—that presently have a four-point advantage over City—afterwards meet Wolves at the Emirates before a rearranged fixture to Everton on 20 December.
Significant Setback for Arsenal's Championship Bid
Being without such an influential player would be a serious blow for Arsenal in their title bid.
The defender has featured in all minutes of the top-flight season so far and is crucial to a defense that has let in just five times in 11 outings.
Prior to the recent tie at the Stadium of Light, the side had kept 8 straight shutouts in all competitions.
Cover Options and Other Fitness Worries
Mosquera and other summer arrival Hincapié are in contention to replace Gabriel against Spurs.
Additionally, there are concerns over whether forward Gyökeres will be back to lead the line after missing Arsenal's last two matches before the international break due to a muscle injury.
Meanwhile, Germany coach Nagelsmann stated that Havertz has experienced a “minor relapse” during his recovery from a knee injury.
While Arteta had been hopeful about the attacker's return this weekend, the national team boss suggested that Havertz is currently expected to return by the New Year.
Squad Stretched to the Limit
Arsenal saw their championship push undermined last season by a series of fitness issues and spent significantly in the transfer window to reinforce the team.
However, with skipper Martin Ødegaard additionally on the injured list—along with Noni Madueke and Martinelli—the squad is under strain significantly.
