Former Arsenal midfielder, Ray Parlour, believes Gabriel and Ben White have played a significant role in the Gunners’ resurgence since their dreadful start to the new campaign.
The north Londoners suffered three consecutive defeats in the opening three games of the season. However, they have turned their fortunes around and are unbeaten in their last eight games across all competitions.
White joined the Gunners this summer for a hefty price tag. While many fans were initially skeptical of this piece of business, his defensive capabilities certainly have justified that price tag. The Englishman and Gabriel have developed an excellent partnership at the back, making them Mikel Arteta’s preferred center-back pairing this season.
Parlour is impressed by the pair’s performances so far. He feels they have made a huge difference and are one of the reasons for the team’s turnaround.
The former midfielder is also confident that Arsenal’s backline has strengthened this year which is going to be pivotal in their fight for a top-six spot in the Premier League table. Speaking to Talksport(via Metro), the 48-year-old said:
“All I can say is I’m really pleased with the back-four at the moment. I think the two center-backs made a massive difference. If you can keep those guys fit and keep it a steadied ship at the back then they look a lot more solid.”
“Ben White and Gabriel look like they’ve got a decent partnership forming which is going to be very, very good for Arsenal if they’re going to come as high as they can in the top five or top six.”
Arsenal Fever View:
Gabriel joined the club back in 2020. He took some time to settle in the new squad probably due to the language barrier. He had started to show his quality in the latter stages of the previous campaign, and partnering with the summer signing, Ben White, this season has elevated his game further.
The pair complement each other’s game really well. While the Brazilian adds physicality to the backline, White is comfortable with the ball at his feet, which helps him evade the opposition press. The pair pose a great aerial threat during set-pieces and have developed quite an understanding, although they don’t speak the same language. It is pretty evident they are Arteta’s go-to men at the heart of defense this season.
Arsenal’s defence will face a tough task when they take on Leicester City this weekend. Gabriel and White will have their work cut out for them by an excellent Foxes attack. If the Gunners manage to secure all three points and other results go their way, they could leapfrog to a top-six spot.
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