A Major Defensive Question for Mikel Arteta
With Gabriel ruled out for several weeks following a thigh injury sustained on international duty with Brazil, Arsenal face a crucial dilemma. The Brazilian centre-back has been central to the team’s build-up patterns, aerial strength and defensive stability, meaning his absence demands more than a simple like-for-like swap. Arteta must decide whether to trust a direct replacement, adjust his back line or reshape the overall tactical structure.
Hincapié and Mosquera: Two Different Profiles
Piero Hincapié and Cristhian Mosquera are the primary candidates to fill the void, though both offer very different qualities. Hincapié provides natural left-footed balance, composure in possession and experience at the top level, making him the most similar stylistically to Gabriel. In contrast, Mosquera brings athleticism, recovery speed and raw potential, but lacks minutes in high-pressure fixtures of the magnitude Arsenal will soon face.
Both defenders are talented, but stepping into Gabriel’s role at this stage of the season presents a significant test of temperament and adaptability.
Internal Solutions: The Safer Short-Term Route
Beyond the new signings, Arsenal could turn to more established squad options. Jakub Kiwior is the most natural replacement, already familiar with Arteta’s system and comfortable on the left side of the defence. Takehiro Tomiyasu is another reliable solution, capable of playing centrally and offering excellent defensive timing, though his presence changes Arsenal’s build-up dynamics.
Choosing internal options may be the least disruptive path during a critical run of fixtures.
A Tactical Reshuffle: The Bold Approach
Another possibility is a structural change. Arteta could temporarily switch to a back three, using William Saliba as the central anchor flanked by Hincapié, White or Tomiyasu. This setup would reduce individual defensive exposure and compensate for the loss of Gabriel’s physicality.
However, altering the system also impacts midfield rotations and wide positioning, potentially limiting Arsenal’s attacking fluidity.
What Is the Best Path Forward?
Arsenal must balance stability with long-term development. In the short term, leaning on Kiwior or Tomiyasu may offer the most secure solution. As the new defenders settle, Hincapié could gradually assume Gabriel’s responsibilities, while Mosquera may be introduced carefully to build experience without excessive pressure.
Ultimately, Gabriel’s absence forces Arsenal into an important decision not just about personnel but about identity and tactical priorities.
