Arsenal hit by worrying injury scare ahead of crunch Man City Premier League clash as Gabriel pulls out of Brazil squad

The central defender has been a rock for the Gunners, forming a solid partnership with William Saliba for Mikel Arteta's side. However, his fitness is in doubt after pulling out of the Brazil squad. Head coach Dorival Junior made the announcement regarding Gabriel's injury on Monday but did not reveal the extent of the injury.

Speaking to the media, the Brazil head coach said: "I had already communicated previously that we will work with a slightly more extensive list.

"A pre-call — we can put it that way — and again, today, we had another casualty. Unfortunately, Gabriel Magalhaes is out. In his place, we are calling Bremer, from Juventus."

Gabriel is suffering from an inflamed Achilles tendon, according to ESPN Brazil. The defender was included in the squad for friendlies against Spain and England after playing in the Champions League round of 16 victory over Porto. However, he will now return to Arsenal.

Since making his senior debut for Brazil last year, the 26-year-old has made six appearances for his national team and is expected to be an important member of the squad during the Copa America in the summer.

As Arsenal prepare for their last 10 league games and remain in contention to win a first Premier League title since 2004, Arteta will be praying the injury is not too serious. Arsenal are due to play Manchester City in their first match after the international break at the Etihad Stadium on March 31, a fixture that could prove to be crucial in what is turning out to be a very tight title race.