Mikel Arteta issues verdict on Gabriel display in Arsenal win

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Mikel Arteta has issued his verdict on the performance of Gabriel Magalhaes as Arsenal beat Brighton 2-0 to get back to winning ways on Sunday.

Goals from Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz at either end of the second-half settled the contest at the Emirates. But Arsenal will be just as pleased after keeping a clean sheet after the Seagulls.

William Saliba perhaps did not produce his best display – by his standards, anyway. But that presented Gabriel Magalhaes with the chance to shine up against one of the most talented young strikers in the Premier League in Evan Ferguson.

Mikel Arteta lauds Gabriel Magalhaes after Arsenal win

The 25-year-old was outstanding for the Gunners. And that prompted Mikel Arteta to be asked if Gabriel was underrated after the victory.

“Hopefully not. Certainly not in the team and certainly not from me,” he said, as reported by Football London.

“I know his value and what he brings to the team. The love he has for defending, to keep a clean sheet and be on it in every single action. What he transmits to the backline is absolutely incredible. Today we did against a team that I think has scored in 32 consecutive games in the Premier League. So, big compliment to the boys.”

Stalwart for the Gunners

It is probably fair to say that those outside of Arsenal do not give Gabriel enough credit. Understandably, Saliba is the star of the show and looks to be destined to become the best defender in the world in the coming years.

But Saliba himself will happily laud Gabriel and what he brings to the Arsenal side.

Gabriel has been a stalwart of the side ever since his arrival from Lille. He was excellent alongside Ben White a couple of years ago. And he has gone to another level ever since Saliba was given his debut at the start of last season.

It is an achievement to keep a clean sheet against Brighton. But we should not be overly surprised as Arsenal boast the best defensive record in the Premier League this season.