Bukayo Saka and Trossard react to Gabriel Magalhaes’ message to Arsenal fans

Gabriel shared an encouraging update with Arsenal supporters as players returned to Sobha Realty Training Centre for the start of pre-season training.

Arsenal endured another frustrating campaign in 2024/25, once again finishing second in the Premier League for the third consecutive year.

The season was marked by several key injuries, with Gabriel among the most high-profile absentees during the run-in.

Gabriel suffered a season-ending hamstring injury in April, forcing him to miss crucial matches, including the Champions League ties against Real Madrid and PSG.

Despite the setback, the Brazilian was one of the club’s standout performers throughout the campaign. His presence at the back was vital as Arsenal boasted the best defensive record in the league, conceding fewer goals than any other side.

Now, as preparations begin for the new season, Gabriel has provided a positive update on his recovery, and a boost that will no doubt excite fans eager to see him return to full fitness.

Arsenal pre-season fixturesDate
AC Milan vs Arsenal23 July
Arsenal vs Newcastle 27 July
Arsenal vs Tottenham31 July
Arsenal’s pre-season fixtures in July.

Gabriel Magalhaes returns to Arsenal training ahead of pre-season tour

Gabriel posted an update on Instagram as Arsenal players returned to the training ground, confirming that he is fully recovered from injury and back in full training.

He captioned his post: “Happy to be back!! Let’s go!!” followed by a heart emoji. The message was met with plenty of support, with the likes of Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, and Leandro Trossard all liking the post.

The Brazilian centre-back was a crucial figure for Arsenal last season and has since committed his long-term future to the club as Gabriel signed a new contract last month.

That move ended speculation linking him with a switch to the Saudi Pro League, where several Saudi clubs had shown strong interest in Gabriel ahead of an ambitious summer approach.

His return is a major boost for Mikel Arteta, especially given the importance of his partnership with William Saliba—not just in terms of defensive solidity, but also in building from the back.

Arsenal have now travelled to Spain as part of their pre-season preparations and will face AC Milan on 23 July as their first fixture of the summer.

Arsenal to make Leandro Trossard decision amid transfer interest

Leandro Trossard in action for Arsenal
Credit: Imago

While Trossard showed support for Gabriel’s return by engaging with his post on social media, the Belgian’s own future in North London remains uncertain.

Reports suggest that clubs in Turkey and Saudi Arabia have expressed interest in Trossard, and Arsenal fans have called for him be sold this summer.

He has just one year remaining on his current deal, and contract talks with the club have reportedly stalled.

With Arsenal closing in on the signing of Noni Madueke, Trossard could find himself slipping further down the pecking order, potentially opening the door to an exit in the coming weeks.