Gabriel: The Unyielding Guardian of Arsenal’s Defence
Five years ago, a would-be robber wielding a baseball bat learned a stark lesson: Gabriel Magalhães is not to be trifled with. Today, the imposing Brazilian centre-back stands as a cornerstone of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, forming a formidable partnership with William Saliba that has cemented his reputation as one of the Premier League’s most feared defenders.
Beyond his defensive prowess, Gabriel is a significant threat in attacking situations, particularly from set-pieces. This season alone, he has contributed three goals and four assists in the league, a testament to his dual threat. Sat in the London Colney sunshine, ahead of a crucial Carabao Cup final clash against Manchester City, Gabriel reflects on his all-action style of play.
He’s a player who willingly puts his body on the line, a characteristic evident throughout the current campaign. Whether it’s his face, chest, or neck, Gabriel is prepared to block shots and defend his ‘house’ by any means necessary. He recounted a recent instance against Bayer Leverkusen where a brave block left him breathless: “I cannot breathe after this!” he exclaimed. “Like I said, I tried to do my best and I gave everything for this badge. So my team-mates can see as well. If you see the block of (Riccardo) Calafiori against Everton, it was unbelievable. We try to do our best every time.”
Gabriel’s trademark aggression and commitment to duels are defining features of his game. He is relentless, always at the forefront, embodying the 28-year-old’s approach. This intensity isn’t a new development; it’s a trait he’s possessed since childhood.
“When I was younger, I was very aggressive,” he admits. “When I played with my friends, they would say, ‘Hey, calm down, you’re a professional’.”
However, for Gabriel, this aggressive defending is simply his natural way of playing. “But it’s just like I do every day. We play football, I go to you, it’s just in my mind. I try to defend my house.”
He draws inspiration from legendary defenders, believing that beautiful football encompasses more than just elegant passing. “I’ve watched a lot of defenders before. I think beautiful football is not only a beautiful pass, but also when you defend, the way you defend. Like I said, I try to bring energy to everyone and help my team-mates.”
His defensive idols share this no-nonsense philosophy. “ (Paolo) Maldini, (Fabio) Cannavaro, Lucio and, of course, you have Thiago Silva and Marquinhos,” he lists. “I think I learn a lot when I watch players like that.”
Facing the League’s Sharpest Teeth
One of the most anticipated duels in the upcoming final is the confrontation between Gabriel and Erling Haaland. This clash pits the Premier League’s most lethal striker against one of its most uncompromising defenders. Their battle could very well be the deciding factor in Arsenal’s quest for their first major trophy in six years, with their last piece of silverware coming in the 2020 FA Cup final against Chelsea.
Gabriel relishes these challenges. “To be honest, I enjoy every game, every striker,” he states. “It is my job, so I like to battle. But he (Haaland) is a top player and, of course, I think he likes to play against me as well. I think it is fun. We enjoy it.” When asked if Haaland is the toughest striker he faces, Gabriel’s response is immediate and emphatic: “Yeah, of course.”
More Than Just Muscle: Humour and Memory
Away from the intensity of the pitch, Gabriel displays a lighter side. Teammates have playfully suggested he might have pursued a career in UFC or as a security guard, eliciting a smile. “They know me,” he chuckles. “We train every day together.” He pauses, then adds with a grin, “I think it’s good to know. Maybe after football I can be a security guard!”
This blend of ferocity and self-awareness is a key aspect of Gabriel’s personality. Yet, beneath the humour lies a deeper layer of remembrance, a quality that fuels his competitive drive.
His social media activity often reflects this penchant for holding onto moments. His playful imitations of Amadou Onana’s ‘three points in the pocket’ celebration, or his teasing of Brazilian compatriot Richarlison by posting a picture holding a four of hearts after Arsenal’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Tottenham, were deliberate.
“Yeah, I remember, that’s why,” he explains. “No, I don’t write (them down), but that’s why the football is beautiful. Because they can do what we can do as well. Like Richarlison, he’s my friend. When we lost against them in pre-season, they posted a picture. And now we see it in the Premier League. So it’s in my mind, I don’t forget. But it’s nothing personal. Against Spurs, it has to be quickly!”
Whether he has a social media post ready for the Carabao Cup final remains to be seen. However, one thing is certain: when Erling Haaland steps onto the Wembley pitch, Gabriel will be ready to defend his goal, his team, and his ‘house’ with everything he has – no matter the cost.
