Arsenal have done well to resurrect their season as they are on a nine-match unbeaten streak at the moment and BBC pundit Garth Crooks feels Brazilian centre back Gabriel has played a big part in that run.
The 23-year-old who arrived from Lille last season has steadily grown into one of the team’s most important players. His influence was clearly visible early on in this campaign when he missed the first few games through injury.
After the Gunners won against Leicester City, Crooks included the Brazilian in his team of the week and he said the following on BBC:
“Arsenal often look a different outfit when Gabriel is fit and in the team. It would certainly appear since their victory in the north London derby, the Gunners’ season has come alive. It’s not the first time either team has used the fixture to stimulate their season, but Arsenal seem to have done it in spectacular fashion.”
Arsenal Fever View:
The north Londoners had a defence that was vulnerable and other clubs were taking advantage of it especially in the month of August. But since Gabriel has come in, his partnership with Ben White has proven to be a calming presence.
The 23-year-old is strong in the air and is quick to snuff out any attacks, allowing White to be more adventurous with the ball. That has allowed the Gunners to be better in their build-up as they move the ball quicker and are able to find attackers in good positions.
Mikel Arteta will be hoping that his centre back will stay fit for the rest of the season. With no European football, the manager can rotate the squad to ensure the young defender remains fresh. This renewed solidity at the back is courtesy of the entire team, but the Brazilian has a hugely important role to play in that.
After a strong couple of months, Arsenal have the challenge of keeping their run of form going for the next few games. With Gabriel at the heart of the defence they can look to win more matches. After a tough start, Arteta and his players can be proud of how they have reacted.
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