Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has withdrawn from Brazil’s team for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics campaign after sustaining a knee injury.
Gabriel was given the nod as Andre Jardine named his 18-man team last month, along with players like Dani Alves, Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz and Sevilla defender Diego Carlos.
But the Arsenal centre-back complained of discomfort in his right knee after their first training session.
Gabriel started physical therapy and was released from all strength exercises but the pain continued and an MRI scan on Monday confirmed that he was suffering with tendonitis.
The former Lille player has already left Brazil’s training camp in Sao Paulo and will continue his rehabilitation with Arsenal when he returns to the Emirates.
Brazil manager Jardine is expected to call up a replacement for Gabriel over the next few days.
Gabriel had a good start with Arsenal last season, scoring on his full Premier League debut against Fulham and winning consecutive man-of-the-match awards.
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But his form dropped over the following months as they missed out on European qualification with an eighth-placed finish in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Everton have given Richarlison permission to compete at the Olympics after initially blocking him when Brazil first named their squad.
The 24-year-old, who started both of Brazil’s opening Copa America games, is said to be desperate to represent his nation at the Olympics and Toffees boss, Rafa Benitez, has reversed the club’s decision.
