Arsenal defender Gabriel will miss the remainder of the season after the club confirmed he requires hamstring surgery.
The Brazilian was substituted in the first half of Arsenal’s 2-1 win against Fulham at the Emirates stadium on Tuesday.
The former Lille defender has started 28 of Arsenal’s 30 Premier League matches this term, helping the club to the best defensive record in the division with 25 goals conceded.
Arsenal say the 27-year-old is aiming to return to first-team action in time for the start of next season.
“Gabi will undergo a surgical repair procedure to his hamstring in the coming days, and immediately begin his recovery and rehabilitation programme, with the aim to be ready for the start of next season,” the club said.
Arsenal are second in the Premier League, 12 points behind leaders Liverpool with eight matches remaining.
The Gunners face holders Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals.
Carlo Ancelotti’s side visit north London on 8 April (20:00 BST), before travelling to the Bernabeu for the second leg on 16 April (20:00 BST.