“We signed him for a peanut amount in 2020, but now he’s worth more than Caicedo and he’s already becoming a legend in this club”- Arsenal Ex manager Arsene Wenger was very happy and excited to reveal that Arsenal stick golf with the signing of sensational star man who has now become a ‘rock’ in the club- Not Saka, Not Saliba and not Odegard.
In the dynamic realm of football, narratives ebb and flow swiftly, and just a month ago, Arsenal was under intense scrutiny amid three consecutive losses, unsettling their position in the Premier League title race. Mikel Arteta’s squad weathered the storm of criticism but has now experienced a remarkable turnaround with four consecutive victories. Notably, they triumphed over Liverpool and secured a historic away win against West Ham United, rekindling their pursuit of domestic glory.
Amid the spotlight on goal scorers, a silent hero emerges in the form of Gabriel Magalhães, a defensive stalwart whose contributions deserve resounding applause. Signed by Arteta, Gabriel has evolved into a linchpin in Arsenal’s defense, forging a formidable partnership with William Saliba.
Gabriel’s journey to prominence is a story marked by perseverance and determination. Commencing his senior career with Avai Futebol Clube in Brazil, he made a significant impact in Ligue 1 with LOSC Lille before catching Arsenal’s attention. Termed a “real fighter” with an “immense physical presence,” Gabriel’s ascent in English football has been meteoric.
Wearing the Arsenal shirt, Gabriel has consistently featured in the starting lineup, showcasing defensive prowess and a penchant for crucial goals. His towering presence at the back has solidified Arsenal’s defense, earning them the accolade of having the best defensive record in the league this season.
Yet, it’s not only his defensive acumen that distinguishes Gabriel; it’s his goal-scoring ability that has pundits and fans singing his praises. With 14 goals since his arrival in September 2020, Gabriel has become the highest-scoring defender in the league.
This blend of defensive tenacity and goal-scoring prowess has propelled Gabriel’s value in the footballing world. The CIES Football Observatory now appraises the Brazilian “rock” at approximately €80m, a staggering £41m increase from Arsenal’s initial investment. In contrast, Chelsea’s highly touted signing, Moises Caicedo, is valued at €60m, a figure that pales in comparison to Gabriel’s meteoric rise.
While Caicedo’s fortunes wane at Chelsea, Gabriel’s star continues to shine brightly at Arsenal, underscoring that elite defenders don’t always come with a record-breaking price tag. In the ever-evolving landscape of football, Gabriel Magalhães stands tall as a testament to talent, determination, and the art of shrewd investment.
