Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes will miss his sides games against Brighton and West Brom as he is mandated to self-isolate after coming in close contact with someone who tested positive for Covid-19.
The news will not come as a good one to the Brazilian defender who had just finished serving his suspension following a red card against Southampton.
He has now been ruled out of the Premier League games against Brighton on December 29 and West Brom on January 2 after also sitting out the 3-1 Boxing Day win against Chelsea.
“With Gabriel, he was in touch with someone who tested positive, so following the protocols as well he needs to be out,” Arteta said ahead of Saturday’s game against Chelsea.
Arteta also revealed that defender David Luiz and forward Willian were both left out of his squad for the game due to illness and not because either of them tested positive for coronavirus.
“David and Willian they were both feeling unwell but both tested negative, following the protocols, we kept them away” he added.
“It is what it is. In this Covid world this can happen to any team, it [has] happened to us now at a really bad time. But that’s the reason why we have all the players. [They] will jump into the piece try their best and fight.”
Gabriel has cemented his spot in the heart of Arsenal’s backline under Arteta since his arrival this summer, playing 12 games and scoring twice.
Better safe than sorry