Jamie Carragher has identified Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes as the Premier League‘s most influential player. This follows Arsenal’s recent 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace. The win extended Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table.
Carragher’s comments highlight Gabriel’s significant contribution to Arsenal’s defensive solidity. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta is navigating some injury concerns within his squad. These concerns arose after the Crystal Palace match.
Gabriel Magalhaes receives high praise
Jamie Carragher has lauded Arsenal’s Gabriel Magalhaes. He called him the “most influential player in the Premier League.” This statement came after Arsenal’s 1-0 win against Crystal Palace on Sunday. The victory increased their lead at the top of the table to four points.
Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze scored the match-winning goal. It was his first Premier League goal for the club. He arrived in the summer for £67.5 million from Crystal Palace.
Gabriel’s fitness and Arsenal’s defensive record
Before the Crystal Palace game, Gabriel Magalhaes’ fitness was a concern. He had a minor issue during Arsenal’s 4-0 Champions League win over Atletico Madrid. Despite the concern, he started and played a key role. He helped secure a clean sheet, Arsenal’s fifth in a row and tenth in 13 matches this season.
Carragher discussed Gabriel’s importance after the match on Sky Sports. He stated that Gabriel could be seen as the most influential player in the Premier League right now. Carragher highlighted Arsenal’s clean sheets and defensive record. He also mentioned Gabriel’s threat at set-pieces. He even compared his influence to that of Erling Haaland.
Pundits Laud Mikel Arteta’s defensive impact at Arsenal
Gabriel joined Arsenal in 2020 for £27 million. He has become one of Mikel Arteta’s most dependable players. His performances have earned praise. Pundits now consider him among the game’s elite defenders.
Nigel Reo-Coker, a former West Ham and Aston Villa midfielder, echoed this sentiment on CBS Sports. He described Arsenal’s defensive evolution under Arteta as key to their success. Reo-Coker believes Arsenal have reached another level this season. He noted their organization and strength in depth.
Reo-Coker specifically praised Gabriel for his leadership and desire on the pitch. He questioned whether Gabriel is now one of the best centre-backs in the world. He emphasized Gabriel’s desire to win the ball. He also noted the pride he and his fellow centre-backs take in keeping clean sheets.
Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta is dealing with fitness concerns. These involve William Saliba, Declan Rice, and Gabriel Martinelli after the Crystal Palace win.
Arsenal’s strong defensive foundation, led by Gabriel Magalhaes, is vital. As Arsenal aims to maintain their position, Gabriel’s continued influence will be crucial.
