David Luiz has handed Arsenal and Mikel Arteta a major selection dilemma ahead of this weekend's Premier League opener against Fulham.
As first reported by The Athletic, the 33-year-old is expected to be out due to a neck problem sustained during the Community Shield penalty shoot-out win over Liverpool at Wembley Stadium a couple of weeks ago.
Meanwhile, football.london understand the extent of the injury is still being assessed by the club.
With that said, a video feed of Arsenal training on Wednesday morning revealed that Luiz was not present at London Colney with the rest of the first-team squad - including Matteo Guendouzi - ahead of the trip to Craven Cottage.
However, the Brazilian is remaining in good spirits despite the injury setback.
Taking to social media following news of his injury, he reacted to a young Arsenal supporter wearing the new adidas shirt with his name and number at the back.
Replying via his Instagram Stories with a series of love heart emojis, Luiz certainly appreciated the kind gesture.
But what about matters on the pitch and specifically who will replace him against Fulham?
Judging by the overwhelming reaction from Arsenal fans, they want to see William Saliba partner £25m summer signing Gabriel Magalhaes and Rob Holding in a back three on Saturday afternoon.
Take a look at what's been said on Twitter...
The prospect of partnering Saliba is something that Gabriel has recently commented on.
"It is a dream," Gabriel told Arsenal.com."I'm living a dream right now, to play for this club with such a massive history and all its achievements.
"Everything there is to achieve and I am very happy to be here. It hasn’t really sunk in yet, but I am glad to be here and I can't wait to play with my new teammates.
"I know [Saliba] is a talented young player and if he is joining Arsenal it is because of his quality.
"We have a few friends in common and I did play against him before.
"He is a great player and I am sure we will get along very well."
