The Gunners revealed on Boxing Day that the Brazilian footballer was self-isolating after a close contact tested positive for the disease, missing the 3-1 home victory over Chelsea.

An official club statement said “Gabriel has tested positive for Covid-19 and is isolating according to UK Government and Premier League protocols. We will continue to monitor and support Gabriel, and we are hoping he will be available again after our next two matches”

Gabriel’s diagnosis was announced after Manchester City’s match with Everton got called off because of an outbreak among City’s squad and playing staff.

New signing Gabriel Magalhaes grabbed a debut goal and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored a stunner in Saturday season’s opener, while former Chelsea winger Willian provided a pair of assists on his debut, just 48 days after the last season ended.

Arsenal’s free-flowing attack was too much for promoted Fulham as Lacazette gave the visitors an early lead. Brazilian defender, Gabriel, scored Arsenal’s second after the break-in his first appearance since joining from Lille.

Aubameyang then added the final flourish with a typically eye-catching strike.