Injury Storm Hits Arsenal After Carabao Cup Final, 5 Players Out for International Duty
Source: Arsenal.com/Antara
An injury storm has hit Arsenal at the worst possible time. Just days after their painful defeat in the 2025/26 Carabao Cup final, Mikel Arteta's squad faces significant fitness issues. This situation has forced several players to withdraw from international duty.
The March international break offered players a stage to shine for their countries. Over the next two weeks, national team schedules featured friendly matches and World Cup Playoffs.
However, Arsenal must reluctantly see several key players remain in the treatment room.
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According to ESPN reports, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Eberechi Eze, Jurrien Timber, and Leandro Trossard are all confirmed to miss out due to fitness problems.
The spotlight falls particularly on the central defensive duo of Saliba and Gabriel, two crucial pillars in Arsenal's defensive system this season.
Their absence impacts not only the club but also their respective national teams.
Gabriel suffered a serious issue after playing the full 90 minutes in Arsenal's defeat to Manchester City.
"Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes is absent for the friendlies against France and Croatia. After the match against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final, the player felt pain in his right knee. Medical examinations confirmed Gabriel is not fit to play during the international break, and no replacement will be called," stated the official announcement from the Brazilian National Team.
A similar situation befell Eberechi Eze, who was dropped from the England National Team squad due to a calf injury.
Meanwhile, Trossard and Timber have also had to postpone their national team duties due to similar fitness concerns.
Amid this injury storm, speculation has arisen that Arteta and Arsenal's medical staff are taking a conservative approach.
With the season entering its crucial phase, the decision to "apply the brakes" to key players is seen as a strategic move.
Arsenal remain in contention for titles across three major competitions. Alongside the Premier League, they still have a chance to win the FA Cup and the Champions League.
