Arsenal Hit By International Break Injury Exodus
Sports Updated: 23 March 2026 21:34 EAT
Arsenal star defenders William Saliba of France national football team and Gabriel marshalls of Brazil national football team
Arsenal have been dealt a major blow during the March international break, with several key first-team players withdrawing from their national teams due to injury and fitness concerns.
Gabriel Magalhães has pulled out of the Brazil squad after sustaining a knee injury, ruling him out of upcoming international fixtures as the club assesses the extent of the problem.
The Brazilian defender joins William Saliba, who will not link up with France due to an ongoing injury concern that requires rest and monitoring.
In midfield, Martin Ødegaard has also been left out of Norway’s squad as he continues recovery from a fitness issue, with the club prioritising his return for domestic competitions.
Defender Jurriën Timber remains unavailable for the Netherlands, staying with the club to continue rehabilitation after his recent injury struggles.
Leandro Trossard has withdrawn from the Belgium squad, with reports indicating the decision was influenced by fitness management during the demanding schedule.
England have also been affected, with Eberechi Eze ruled out due to injury, denying him a chance to feature in the international fixtures.
In his place, Ben White has earned a recall to the England squad, marking his return after a lengthy absence from international duty.
The developments mean Arsenal will be without several of their core players on the international stage, in what has become a significant cluster of withdrawals within a short period.
The focus now shifts to recovery, with the club hoping the break provides enough time for players to regain full fitness ahead of a crucial run of matches.
Manager Mikel Arteta faces a delicate balancing act as he looks to manage workloads and avoid further setbacks during the decisive closing phase of the season.
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