The November international break has not been a good one for Arsenal.
Yes, Martin Zubimendi scored a great goal for Spain and Bukayo Saka did the same while playing for England, but their performances were overshadowed by injuries.
Riccardo Calafiori was sent back by Italy because of a hip issue, while Jurrien Timber hurt himself as well but avoided any major damage.
The big problem, however, is the injury Gabriel Magalhaes suffered during Brazil’s win against Senegal.
Declan Rice will be very upset with Gabriel Magalhaes’ injury
Gabriel’s adductor injury is a massive blow for Arsenal.
The Brazil international is one of the most important players at the club. He has been incredible all season and is one of the leaders on and off the pitch.
Gabriel’s first job at Arsenal is his defending, but he is the best in the world in set-piece situations at the other end of the pitch.
One of the biggest beneficiaries of the former Lille man’s ability is Declan Rice, as Gabriel maximises his deliveries from corners and free-kicks.
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Now, news has emerged from the BBC that the Arsenal number six could be out until January, which means he is guaranteed to miss the games against Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
Rice, in particular, will be gutted because his set-pieces into the box are less likely to be attacked in the same way by anyone else in the squad.
Piero Hincapie could be Arsenal’s new weapon in set-pieces
Rice and Gabriel had a great understanding during set-pieces. You always saw the two players having a quick chat before a corner or a free-kick, and it has paid off many times.
The England international will have to form a new relationship with someone else in the coming games, and we think Piero Hincapie could be the one.
The Ecuadorian defender hasn’t played much this season because of an injury, but he is fit and ready to go now.
Hincapie, who has been described as a warrior by Xabi Alonso, has the physicality to attack corners and set-pieces like Gabriel did.
If he can form a good understanding with Rice, we think he could have a massive impact inside the opposition box.