The North London derby arrives at the Emirates Stadium this weekend, but Mikel Arteta will be without one of his star players in Gabriel for the gripping encounter between Arsenal and Tottenham
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has explained why Gabriel’s recent injury shouldn’t hinder the Gunners’ defensive capabilities against Tottenham on Sunday. Mikel Arteta had said before the Sunderland match earlier this month that he anticipated several injured players returning after the international break.
However, the last thing he would have wanted was additional key players becoming unavailable. Regrettably for the Arsenal boss, that appears to be exactly what has occurred with centre-back Gabriel.
The 27-year-old picked up a muscular injury during Brazil’s international friendly against Senegal on Saturday. Multiple reports suggest Gabriel faces a minimum four-week recovery period, with the possibility he could remain sidelined until January.
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While this could significantly impact Arteta’s squad during a hectic December schedule, Henry maintains that a defence is assessed on far more than simply the two centre-backs. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s North London Derby, the Arsenal legend was asked about his thoughts on Micky van de Ven’s goal against Copenhagen in the Champions League.
To which, he told Betway: “Well, it says that he can score a goal like that. Not to downplay it, and of course I also saw his assist against Man Utd last season, but I just think the most important thing is that the team defends well.
“It’s not just about two centre-backs. When a team attacks well, it’s also because the guys at the back are proactive, beating the line of pressure and making it easier for the striker.
“When a team defends well, it’s because the whole team is defending well, not just your two centre-backs. Trust me, if your team is not shielding on the counter and winning the second ball, you’re exposed. I don’t care who you are.
“But going back to individuals, yes, Van de Ven is outstanding, Van Dijk is outstanding, Gabriel and Saliba are outstanding. They’re strong, difficult to beat, and like everybody, they have their flaws, but that’s normal.”
Gabriel’s absence will be felt by Arteta this weekend. The Brazilian defender has been ever-present in the Gunners’ Premier League campaign this term, whilst also chipping in with two goals and three assists across all competitions.
The star has delivered crucial moments for Arteta throughout the season; it was Gabriel’s dramatic 96th-minute header that secured victory for Arsenal in their away fixture at Newcastle United earlier this season. Arteta faced additional defensive concerns during the international break when Riccardo Calafiori pulled out of Italy’s squad due to a hip issue.
However, the Italian’s injury is not believed to be serious and he should be fit for selection this weekend. The opening North London Derby of the season presents Arteta with an opportunity to strengthen his side’s position at the Premier League summit.
Manchester City trail the Gunners by four points as it stands. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur could narrow the gap to Arsenal. Currently in fifth place with 18 points, Spurs could potentially finish the weekend in third place – just five points behind Arteta’s team, if results go in their favour.
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