Arsenal technical director Edu Gaspar has heaped praise on Gabriel Magalhaes after the Brazilian defender extended his contract yesterday.
The Gunners signed the talented centre-half from Lille back in 2020. He has been a mainstay in Mikel Arteta’s side since, and despite a few errors here and there, he fully deserves his brand-new contract.
Edu praises Gabriel Magalhaes after defender signs new Arsenal contract
Since joining Arsenal two years ago, Gabriel has played 83 times in all competitions and has scored nine goals, which is a very good record for a centre-half.
He has mostly been solid at the back for the Gunners, and the fact that he’s still only 24 means he will only get better in the coming years.
Edu played a big part in extending Gabriel’s contract. The Arsenal technical director had his say on his compatriot after the announcement yesterday, and he seems really impressed with the defender’s growth – on and off the pitch.
Showering praises on Gabriel, Edu told Arsenal.com: “It’s great that we’ve agreed a new deal with Gabi. At 24, he’s still a young player and is part of our future.
“His performances since he joined us in 2020 have been very strong and his positive impact to our results have been clear for everyone to see.
“He has grown so much on and off the pitch, with both his contribution and communication on and off the pitch. We all look forward to see Gabi continue to grow as an important part of our club.”
Our View:
William Saliba’s brilliance at the back for Arsenal since the start of the season has cast a big shadow on Gabriel, but the Brazilian is a fine defender too.
He’s good on the ball, aggressive without it and is absolutely incredible in the air. He has all the characteristics to become a top centre-half, and if he continues to progress, he’ll surely fulfil his potential.
Arsenal are absolutely right to tie Gabriel down to a new deal. He could be their main man at left-centre-half for years to come, and he’ll be hoping to play a big part for his country as well.
The Gunners face Southampton next in the Premier League and Gabriel is almost a guaranteed starter.