Micah Richards says Arsenal have a ‘remarkable’ player who has improved massively since signing

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It was heartbreak for Arsenal as they conceded in the final minute of injury time to come away with a 2-2 draw from Manchester City today.

Despite being down to ten men before half-time after Leandro Trossard saw red, Arsenal held firm in the second 45 and came within seconds of a famous win.

In the end, John Stones bundled home to send The Etihad wild and ensure a share of the spoils for both teams.

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Of course, there was much to like about Arsenal’s performance and once again, they were defensively outstanding.

Key to that once more was the discipline and brilliance of both William Saliba and Gabriel at the heart of the back four.

And discussing that defensive effort, Micah Richards admitted he’s been super-impressed by the rise of Gabriel since his arrival.

Micah Richards lauds Gabriel Magalhaes after watching Arsenal v Man City

Speaking on Sky Sports about the Arsenal defensive display at The Etihad, Richards was full of praise for how the Gunners went about their business.

And singling out Gabriel, Richards admitted that he has come a long way since his initial period at the club.

“When Gabriel came to Arsenal, making a few mistakes on the ball, but he has sort of changed his game to be reliable every single week, whether it’s set-pieces defending, set-pieces attacking,” Richards commented.

“I thought his overall game was remarkable.”

Gabriel and Saliba continue to impress

There’s no doubting that Saliba and Gabriel are among the world’s best right now and it’s great for Arsenal to have such a duo.

Naturally, conceding two goals, they’ll be annoyed a bit at the eventual outcome at the Etihad today.

But nevertheless, Arsenal know they have a duo at the back now who can be relied upon every week.

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As Richards says here, the improvement from Gabriel over time and the level of performances week in, week out, is quite brilliant.

This is a small hammer blow. But the Gunners are well in this title race and Gabriel and Saliba will be key again.