Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has insisted that Gabriel will be fit for the first game of the Premier League season.

The Brazilian was missing from the squad for the 1-0 defeat to Tottenham in Hong Kong on Thursday.

Gabriel was also sidelined for the wins over AC Milan and Newcastle earlier this month, but, when asked about the defender’s fitness, along with Riccardo Calafiori and Jurrien Timber, Arteta said:

“If they evolve like they’ve been involved in the last few days, the three of them will be available [to face Manchester United].”

The Gunners make the trip to Old Trafford in just over two weeks’ time for their opening Premier League fixture.

Why is Gabriel sidelined?

Speaking after the victory against Milan, Arteta said that the centre-back had sustained a “little niggle” in training.

With Gabriel having subsequently missed two further friendlies, it’s apparent that the injury is somewhat more serious than Arteta has led us to believe.

The 27-year-old has fully recovered after undergoing hamstring surgery a few months ago ,but it seems he has had another setback of some kind.

What is the latest update on the fitness of Timber and Calafiori?

Fans should not be too worried about the absence of Jurrien Timber. The Dutchman only returned to full training earlier this week, having undergone an operation on his ankle back in May. He still has work to do on his fitness.

Calafiori’s situation is slightly different. The Italian has had constant knee problems since his arrival at the Emirates. He picked up his latest injury just after halftime against Newcastle. It is not deemed to be a serious issue, but it is definitely something to keep an eye on as we get closer to the game against United.

Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here