The Piero Hincapie deal has created many internal controversies at Arsenal. Some people think that this is an overly risky investment, which can have a big impact on their finances in the long term.
On the other hand, there are also opinions that recruiting him is mandatory, especially when Jakub Kiwior leaves and Arsenal's defense needs another quality option.
After a season full of injuries in 2024-25, Mikel Arteta no longer wants to put the team in a passive position. Arsenal decided to borrow Hincapie from Leverkusen before activating a buy-to-know clause next summer, worth €52 million. An expensive "assurance" but Arteta was now exited for his timely hand.
Gabriel's shock and the problem right before the eyes
Gabriel has been linked with a long-term absence. The specific level has not been announced but the biggest concern is that he may be absent until the end of 2025.
In the context of Arsenal having to play 14 matches in 8 weeks, this is a huge loss, not only in defense, but also in constant attack situations.
Mosquera - a safe but distorted option
Cristhian Mosquera has played quite impressively every time he was given the opportunity. The Spanish star is strong, has good fighting ability and stable footwork. In theory, Mosquera could have filled some of Gabriel's void.
However, he is right-footed and Arteta always prioritizes a pair of central defenders including one left-footed and one right-footed to ensure balanced passing when deploying. This is a big disadvantage that makes Mosquera unlikely to be the number one choice.
Calafiori - a reasonable solution but lacks physical stability
Riccardo Calafiori is a potential choice as he is playing as an Italian centre-back and has played in this position for Arsenal in the pre-season. However, the 23-year-old player has just had physical problems and was eliminated from the Italian squad by coach Gattuso during FIFA Days in November.
Calafiori was not injured but was under pressure. Arsenal believes the 23-year-old defender will return soon. However, using Calafiori to partner Saliba will force Arteta to make two changes to his defense as Calafiori has played all 11 Premier League games this season at left-back, where he has played very steadily.
Hincapie the time to shine
Now is the time for Piero Hincapie to emerge as the most reasonable option. Arsenal have prepared him for the competition cycle with a series of matches before the international break.
The Ecuadoran came off the bench against Crystal Palace and Burnley, and started twice against Brighton and Slavia Prague. The national team training session with 2 official matches also helped him increase his ball feeling and fitness.
Hincapie's style is different from Gabriel's. If Gabriel is more towards strength and ability to judge in small spaces, Hincapie possesses speed, determination and extensive experience even at the age of 24. He has worn the Ecuador captain's armband many times, showing leadership qualities - a very important factor at the moment.
Not only that, Hincapie's natural left-sided play makes him an ideal piece to keep Arsenal's defensive structure intact.
rotation leads to changes in the entire system
The fact that Hincapie (or Calafiori) is dragged into the center also creates opportunities for others. Myles Lewis-Skelly could be given more playing time at left-back, especially since Thomas Tuchel stressed that he needs to play regularly to compete for a place in the 2026 World Cup.
Ben White could also be pushed to a higher priority in rotation options, especially as the tight schedule is wearing down the "Gunners" fitness.
A big challenge but Arsenal are ready to face
The loss of Gabriel was a heavy blow to Arsenal's ambitions. However, unlike previous seasons, Arteta now has more options, from Mosquera, Calafiori to Hincapie. With the need for stability and system professionalism given top priority, Hincapie is likely to be given the opportunity.
The coming period will be very harsh, but it is also the time for Arsenal to prove whether the depth of the squad they have invested in over the years is really effective or not.
