Arsenal’s Big Gabi proves once again he’s the rock behind their rise

On Saturday afternoon, Arsenal secured yet another crucial win, with Viktor Gyökeres and Declan Rice both on the scoresheet as the Gunners beat Burnley 2-0.

The team rose to the occasion once again, with every player contributing to ensure they maintained their place at the top of the Premier League, stretching their lead to six points.

While several Gooners have rightly been praised, Gabriel Magalhães’ performance against Burnley seems to have flown under the radar.

Gabriel’s growing influence

The Brazilian centre-back was outstanding when Arsenal edged Crystal Palace 1-0 the previous week. He had been an injury doubt for that game but ended up producing a man-of-the-match display. Against Burnley, he picked up right where he left off.

In the win at Turf Moor, Gabriel made 72 touches, registered an assist, produced a key interception, and made nine clearances. He completed 93% of his passes and won every single duel, both aerial and on the ground, even drawing a foul for his team.

While William Saliba often receives much of the acclaim, Gabriel is now staking his own claim as one of Arsenal’s most influential players. His physicality and aggression make him a nightmare for opposition attackers, and Burnley, like many others this season, simply could not cope.