Another blow for Arsenal as Magalhaes forced off with injury

The Brazilian centre-back, after just 14 minutes, felt a muscular issue while making a defensive challenge and immediately requested a substitution, casting doubt over his availability for the upcoming Champions League tie against Real Madrid.

It's yet another injury headache for Arsenal. The London side, who have already been without Riccardo Calafiori, now face the prospect of losing one of their most important defensive figures for several weeks.

The defender felt discomfort in his hamstring after attempting to stop a counterattack just 15 minutes into the match. Arsenal players urged their opponents to kick the ball out, but Fulham continued play, and after a brief spell, the ball went out of play, allowing the Brazilian to fall to the ground in distress.

The muscular issue left both Magalhaes and Mikel Arteta visibly frustrated, with the manager now concerned about his defensive options ahead of the Champions League clash with Madrid. While medical tests are still to be carried out, it seems increasingly likely that the Brazilian will miss at least the first leg at the Santiago Bernabeu.

One of Gabriel's key attributes is his physical presence — standing at 1.90 metres — which makes him dominant in aerial duels. Arteta, who will no doubt be weighing up how to shore up his defence, will need to act quickly.

The first leg is set to take place at the Bernabeu on April 8, with the return fixture scheduled for London on April 16.