Latest on Gabriel, Timber, Calafiori and Odegaard | Team news | News
Gabriel
Gabriel Magalhaes was forced off injured during Arsenal's 2-1 defeat to Manchester City on Wednesday night. The Brazilian defender was substituted in the 68th minute after appearing to suffer a knee injury. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said after the match that Gabriel would be assessed on Thursday and that he was hopeful the injury was not serious.
Gabriel has been a key player for Arsenal this season, making 24 appearances in all competitions. He has formed a strong partnership with Ben White at the heart of the defence and has been praised for his physicality and composure on the ball.
Injury update
Arsenal have confirmed that Gabriel has suffered a medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury. The club say that the injury is not expected to be long-term and that Gabriel is likely to be out for around four weeks.
This is a blow for Arsenal, who are already without Kieran Tierney and Thomas Partey due to injury. However, the Gunners will be hoping that Gabriel can return to action soon and help them challenge for a top-four finish.
Timber
Jurrien Timber has been ruled out of the Netherlands' Nations League matches against Poland and Belgium due to a hamstring injury. The defender picked up the injury during Ajax's 2-0 win over Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday.
Timber is a key player for the Netherlands and his absence will be a blow to Louis van Gaal's side. The 20-year-old has made 10 appearances for his country and has been praised for his versatility and composure on the ball.
Injury update
Ajax have confirmed that Timber has suffered a grade one hamstring tear. The club say that the injury is not expected to be long-term and that Timber is likely to be out for around two weeks.
This is a blow for Ajax, who are already without Lisandro Martinez due to injury. However, the Dutch champions will be hoping that Timber can return to action soon and help them challenge for the Eredivisie title.
Calafiori
Leonardo Calafiori has joined Basel on loan from Roma for the rest of the season. The Italian defender has struggled for game time at Roma this season, making just one appearance in all competitions.
Calafiori is a product of Roma's youth academy and has been capped by Italy at Under-21 level. He is a versatile defender who can play at left-back or centre-back.
Transfer details
Calafiori has joined Basel on a six-month loan deal. The Swiss club have the option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.
This is a good move for Calafiori, who will be hoping to get more game time at Basel and impress Italy manager Roberto Mancini ahead of the World Cup.
Odegaard
Martin Odegaard has been named Arsenal's new captain. The Norwegian midfielder takes over from Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who was stripped of the captaincy in December.
Odegaard has been a key player for Arsenal since joining the club on loan from Real Madrid in January 2021. He has made 60 appearances for the Gunners, scoring 14 goals and providing 12 assists.
Captaincy appointment
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta said that Odegaard was appointed captain because of his leadership qualities and his commitment to the club.
Odegaard is the youngest Arsenal captain since Cesc Fabregas in 2008. He will be hoping to lead the Gunners to success in the Premier League and the Europa League.
