Report: Gabriel a surprise leader amongst Arsenal squad

By Jordan Harris

Gabriel Magalhães showed himself to be something of a surprise leader amongst the Arsenal squad during their pre-season tour of America, with The Athletic reporting that he could be seen coaching the defence from the touchline in one of the games.

Mikel Arteta, of course, is working with a young squad. And one of the issues he needs to address this summer is who is going to become the new captain at the Emirates.

Obviously, Martin Odegaard is on pole position to take the armband. But it says a lot about the squad Arsenal have put together that there are other candidates.

And Gabriel is one who would likely get plenty of support from the fans. The centre-back has been an inspired signing for the Gunners. And he leads by example out on the pitch.

And it seems that he is looking to take on more responsibility. The Athletic listed some of the big characters who emerged during Arsenal’s pre-season tour, and Gabriel is one name mentioned.

It is noted that it is a surprise to see the 24-year-old be so prominent in that sense because of the language barrier. However, that did not stop the former Lille man coaching the backline from the side during their clash with Orlando City.

Gabriel a surprise leader amongst Arsenal squad

Mikel Arteta will love to see Gabriel take on that responsibility. He appears to be the leader at the back, having still shone in a back five full of impressive performers last season.

Gabriel is one player Arsenal can build their team around in the coming years. He has the potential to be a huge player for the Gunners and the spine of the side.

It would be a surprise if he was now named captain. But clearly, he does not need the armband to take on the role of a leader.