Gabriel Paulista was absent from our clash with Watford, much to the disappointment of a huge number of Arsenal fans. It appears as though he may be available to feature against Bayern Munich however, as he has been pictured training with the rest of the team ahead of Tuesday’s game.
The Brazilian’s absence from the matchday squad was a surprise to pretty much everyone, and few knew why he’d been totally omitted from not only the team, but the bench as well.
There were a number of unconfirmed theories floating around social media, ranging from illness to a minor operation.
No Gabriel due to illness and and Ospina due to injury today against Watford. [@StanCollymore]
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) October 17, 2015
Mysterious. Sky claim Gabriel has ‘undergone a minor operation’, with no more info given #AFCLive
— Arsenal FC Gunners (@GunnersAFC) October 17, 2015
But it seems as though whatever the cause, he’s recovered sufficiently to take part in full training, and could play a part against the German giants in the Champions League this Tuesday.
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This is excellent news, as Per Mertesacker was particularly poor against Watford. Many have been calling for the giant German to be replaced by Gabriel this season, and his impressive performances so far certainly help his case.
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If he has been ill or if there’s any truth in the surgery rumours, then Arsene Wenger may be unwilling to risk him this Tuesady, but at least he won’t be out for any significant length of time.
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