Arteta Urges Arsenal to Embrace ‘Beautiful’ Season Run-In Despite Injury Setbacks

LONDON, April 5 — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has urged his team to stay focused on their title ambitions despite losing Gabriel Magalhaes for the remainder of the season due to a hamstring injury.

The Brazilian centre-back picked up the injury during Tuesday’s 2-1 victory over Fulham and is set to undergo surgery, adding to Arsenal’s growing injury list.

Bukayo Saka returned from a similar injury in that match, coming off the bench to score in his first appearance since December. However, Arsenal are still without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus for the rest of the campaign, while defenders Riccardo Calafiori, Ben White, and Jurrien Timber remain doubts ahead of the Champions League quarter-final clash with Real Madrid.

“It was tough to take because we just got Bukayo back, and then we lost Gabi,” Arteta said on Friday.

“But as they have all season, the team responded well. I’m proud of that. We’ll be without Gabi for a while, so now it’s about finding new solutions and continuing to compete as we have throughout the season.”

Eyes on a Strong Finish

Arteta described the final stretch of the season as “the most important, beautiful part” and stressed the importance of adapting to challenges.

“These situations give other players a chance to step up,” he said. “Yes, losing Gabi is a big blow, but we have the depth and resources to manage it.”

Saka’s early impact on his return—scoring just seven minutes after coming on—was a welcome boost, and Arteta hinted the England star could start against Everton today to build match fitness ahead of the Real Madrid tie.

“He needs minutes and he’s going to get them,” Arteta said.

“He felt great after Fulham, he scored, and he’s clearly hungry for more. That’s a great sign. But right now, the biggest game is Everton. Preparing well for that is the best way to be ready for Real Madrid.” — AFP