This resulting in the Premier League leaders' defensive solidity under severe threat during a pivotal period.

The 27-year-old was forced off after 65 minutes of Brazil's 2-0 friendly victory over Senegal, played ironically at the Emirates Stadium on November 15. Scans conducted the following day revealed the issue, prompting the Brazilian FA to release him from the squad ahead of their subsequent friendly against Tunisia in Lille.

This latest setback compounds an already mounting injury list at Arsenal, who had conceded just five goals in 11 Premier League matches prior to the November international break, boasting the league's stingiest defence and sitting atop the table with a four-point cushion.

Gabriel has been ever-present this season, playing every minute in the league and forming an imperious partnership with William Saliba. His absence will be felt not only defensively but also at the other end: the Brazilian has already delivered several direct goal contributions from set-pieces, underlining his status as one of Europe's most complete centre-backs.

Latest reports indicate Gabriel could miss between four weeks and two months, with Arsenal conducting further assessments this week. At minimum, he is ruled out of the upcoming north London derby against Tottenham on November 23, the Champions League clash with Bayern Munich on November 26, and the trip to Chelsea on November 30. A longer lay-off would extend into the congested December schedule.

Arteta does have depth in central defence following summer investments. Young Spaniard Cristhian Mosquera (signed from Valencia) and Ecuadorian Piero Hincapie (on loan from Bayer Leverkusen) are both available to step in alongside Saliba, while Riccardo Calafiori offers additional versatility, though the Italian returned early from international duty with a minor hip issue but is expected to be fit.

The injury woes do not stop with Gabriel. Arsenal entered the break already without captain Martin Odegaard, striker Viktor Gyokeres (hamstring), winger Noni Madueke (knee), Gabriel Martinelli, and forward Kai Havertz (who has suffered a minor setback in his recovery from a knee problem). Several of these players are targeting returns in late November or early December.

On a brighter note, recent arrivals Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard emerged unscathed from their international commitments, providing Arteta with welcome midfield and attacking options as the Gunners prepare for a defining run of fixtures.

With the title race intensifying and European commitments resuming, Arsenal's squad depth will be tested like never before. Arteta will hope the leaders can maintain their form and keep rivals at bay until their walking wounded return.

Lehlohonolo Seema "happy" as Sekhukhune hold Citizens