The Brazilian defender was forced off in midweek after colliding awkwardly with goalkeeper David Raya during Arsenal’s Europa League clash with Olympiacos. Although Arteta eased fears of a long-term setback, he admitted that a final decision on Gabriel’s involvement will only be made after Friday’s training session.

The potential absence of Gabriel is a major concern for Arsenal. The 27-year-old has been a defensive mainstay, starting six of Arsenal’s opening seven Premier League matches this season and winning 74% of his aerial duel, the highest success rate among Arsenal’s centre-backs.

His partnership with William Saliba has been central to Arsenal conceding just six goals in the league so far, the second-best defensive record behind Manchester City.

Adding to Arteta’s selection headache, summer signing Piero Hincapié remains unavailable. The Ecuadorian defender, signed from Bayer Leverkusen, has yet to make his Arsenal debut due to injury.

Arteta confirmed that Hincapié is expected back after the international break, having missed all of Arsenal’s 11 competitive fixtures so far. Winger Noni Madueke and forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus also remain sidelined, leaving Arsenal short of depth in both attack and midfield.

In more positive news, Bukayo Saka is edging closer to full sharpness. The winger, who has played just 210 minutes since August after a muscle issue, has gradually increased his workload and was included in Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad.

Arteta welcomed his progress but stressed the importance of careful management, saying communication with the national team remains ongoing. Saka’s return could be vital for Arsenal, who has averaged 2.4 goals per game with him starting compared to 1.2 without him.

One surprise has been the international call-up of 18-year-old Myles Lewis-Skelly. The academy graduate has featured sparingly this season just 122 minutes of first-team football but his inclusion by Tuchel underlines the youngster’s growing reputation.

Arteta praised Lewis-Skelly’s professionalism and hinted he could play a role off the bench against West Ham if needed, particularly with injuries depleting Arsenal’s squad.

The stakes are high for Arsenal, who sits third in the Premier League on 16 points, two behind leaders Liverpool. West Ham, meanwhile, are unbeaten in their last three league games and pose a significant threat.

With Gabriel’s status uncertain and key names still missing, Arteta faces one of his sternest early-season tests to keep Arsenal’s title challenge on track.