Real Madrid suffered an early setback when they lost one of their defensive pillars in Militao. The Brazilian defender suffered an injury in the opening day of La Liga game against Athletic in San Mamés, which prompted him to undergo knee surgery last week. Unfortunately, Militao will be off the pitch for most of the season due to this illness.
The question of whether Real Madrid should look for Militao’s replacement became a hot topic in the club’s management. Ultimately, it was decided not to look for reinforcements on the market, but to rely on internal resources and the versatility of the squad. While that determination reflects confidence in the existing players, the club haven’t stopped looking for options to strengthen their defence.
According to MundoDeportivo, among the names that appeared on the list of possible transfers, Brazilian defender Gabriel Magalhaes (25) plays for Arsenal. Although Gabriel was a key player in the Arteta-led defense last season, he started the current season on the substitutes’ bench.
Rumors of Real Madrid’s interest in Gabriel intensified and caught the attention of the English press. However, the player himself has made a firm decision by choosing to stay at Arsenal. That ‘no’ echoed not only in the ears of officials at the white club, but also in Saudi Arabia, where interest in signing the Brazilian defender was also expressed.
He’s committed to the Gunners
Gabriel’s refusal to leave Arsenal reflects his dedication and loyalty to the England side, despite enticing offers from other parts of European football and beyond. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will face the challenge of going much of the season without Militao and with a defense that needs to find the stability needed to remain competitive in all the competitions they enter.