Centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes was a colossus during Arsenal’s win over Burnley on Saturday. The 23-year-old showed experience beyond his years as he marshalled the Gunners’ backline, relishing the physical battle with Clarets’ strikers Chris Wood and Ashley Barnes.
Mikel Arteta”s side opened the scoring in the 30th minute, with Norwegian playmaker Martin Odegaard netting a sublime free-kick in the first half, curling the ball around the wall, past a helpless Nick Pope. The north Londoners then held on through resolute defending, shutting Sean Dyche’s side out as the game finished 1-0, the same scoreline they beat Norwich City by last weekend.
Gabriel was arguably the best player on the pitch, providing ten clearances, two blocked shots and three tackles whilst also winning a whopping eight duels against Burnley attackers. After the game, the Brazilian took to social media to praise his teammates’ mentality and thank the travelling supporters.
“What a great team spirit and an important win! Thanks to the fans for the support.”
Arsenal boss Arteta was also extremely impressed with the former Lille defender’s performance, revealing that his grasp of the English language is improving, something that helps the backline communicate better.
“We know that he’s a player with an incredible future and is already giving us a lot. He has adapted really well to the league. That’s why we signed him. He is stepping in, his language is much better and he can coach and communicate much better with his teammates. He understands what we want and I don’t think it gets much harder than playing here in the Premier League. He was terrific today.”
The north London club will be hoping to make it three wins in a row when they welcome local rivals Tottenham Hotspur to the Emirates Stadium next weekend.
