Declan Rice and Mikel Merino describe Gabriel Magalhaes in just one word after Newcastle heroics

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Arsenal duo Declan Rice and Mikel Merino have paid tribute to match-winner Gabriel Magalhaes following the 2-1 win against Newcastle United.

The Brazilian emerged as the hero at St James’ Park as his 95th-minute goal secured the three points for his side, who trailed for the majority of the clash.

Nick Woltemade scored the opener for Newcastle as Eddie Howe desperately tried to cling onto his side’s one-goal lead in the North East.

However, Mikel Merino found the breakthrough for Arsenal in the 84th minute, and the visitors pushed to secure a last-gasp victory and move only two points behind league leaders Liverpool.

Now, Gabriel’s teammates have ensured that the defender is recognised for his heroics which keep the Gunners firmly in the conversation at the top of the table after disappointing results against Liverpool and Manchester City.

Gabriel Magalhaes is the man of the moment at Arsenal

Merino commented on Gabriel’s Instagram post following the victory and described his teammate as a “monster” after his heroics at St James’ Park.

Rice also joined in the praise for the centre-back, echoing what Merino said in his Instagram story: “My bro. You are a monster, my friend.”

The term “monster” is the resounding verdict among Arsenal players after Noni Madueke reacted to Gabriel’s winner on Instagram, as the 27-year-old reminded the Premier League of his dominant threat from set-pieces.

Gabriel made the PFA Team of the Season for his efforts last term and is widely recognised as one of, if not the, best centre-backs in the Premier League.

Heading into the 2025/26 season, the Gunners had scored 33 goals from set-pieces over the last two campaigns, but their threat has somewhat been neutralised in recent weeks.

Although William Saliba created the opportunity, Gabriel still had to convert the corner while wrestling with several Newcastle defenders, and he rose to deliver what could be remembered as a pivotal moment come the end of the season.

Mikel Arteta needs both Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba

The pair are the preferred centre-back pairing at the Emirates, but Mikel Arteta selected Cristhian Mosquera over Saliba to start the trip to St James’ Park.

Saliba has been battling for fitness since his injury during the 1-0 loss against Liverpool, but his role in Gabriel’s goal has emphasised the importance of having both on the pitch for the Gunners.

Mosquera has deputised superbly for his French teammate; however, his inexperience in English football certainly showed as he struggled to find his feet against Newcastle.

Of course, the Spaniard is still very early in his Arsenal career and will undoubtedly improve. But with Arteta having the opportunity to move ahead of Liverpool with a win over West Ham United on Saturday, he can really pile the pressure on Arne Slot, with the momentum now firmly in North London.