The 7 Days That Could Transform Arsenal’s Season

This might be the year Arsenal fans have been hoping for. After finishing second in the Premier League three times, the team aims to do even better this season. Last year saw them as runners-up in the league and exit in the Champions League semifinals. To improve, they have made significant signings during the summer transfer window to strengthen their squad.

However, challenges have already emerged. During the international break, manager Mikel Arteta learned that defender Gabriel, a key player this season, suffered an injury that may sideline him until early 2026. While this is a major setback, Arsenal’s depth, built through strategic signings, should help. Piero Hincapie, an Ecuadorian defender acquired on the last day of the transfer window, is seen as Gabriel’s replacement. Nevertheless, Hincapie has mostly played as a left-back and has yet to start in the Premier League.

Absences at the Worst Time

Arteta could also reposition Riccardo Calafiori, who plays left-back, but prefers to avoid changing multiple positions for one absence. Another option is to start Cristhian Mosquera, another summer recruit, who typically backs up William Saliba in central defense. Besides Gabriel, the team will also miss long-term absentees like Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, as well as Martin Odegaard, who hasn’t fully recovered, and key substitute Gabriel Martinelli.

These numerous injuries come at a crucial time, as Arsenal faces a packed schedule. In just seven days, they will host Tottenham for a heated London derby, followed by a Champions League clash with Bayern Munich, a key contender. Lastly, they will visit Chelsea, a title rival in England. This challenging run of matches will test the team’s physical and mental resilience, with many believing they could clinch the title by the end of the season. Moments like these can define a season. We’ll know more by November 30 after the match against Chelsea.