Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer Praise Arsenal’s £27m ‘World’s Best’ Star
Arsenal Football Club has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, particularly regarding their defensive capabilities. Central to this evolution is Gabriel Magalhães, whose return from injury against Aston Villa highlighted his impact with a commanding performance and a goal in a remarkable 4-1 victory.
Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer’s Praise for Gabriel
Former football stars Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have recently extolled Gabriel’s qualities, each reinforcing his reputation as a formidable defender. On the show “The Rest Is Football,” Lineker named Gabriel as the best center-half globally, a statement that resonated with many football enthusiasts. Shearer echoed this sentiment, noting Gabriel’s aerial dominance and ability to impose himself in both defensive and attacking set-piece scenarios.
Statistics That Support Gabriel’s Dominance
Since the beginning of the 2023/24 Premier League season, Arsenal has demonstrated defensive prowess, conceding the fewest goals among all teams. Gabriel, signed from Lille for £27 million in 2020, has excelled in key defensive statistics:
- Leading in clearances among Premier League defenders
- High success rate in aerial duels
- Consistently top-ranked for defensive duels won
His contributions extend beyond defense; Gabriel is also known for scoring from set pieces, making him a valuable asset in tightly contested matches.
A Shift in Defensive Philosophy
The era marked by defensive instability, characterized by players like Mustafi and Sokratis, is now a distant memory. During that time, Arsenal often conceded more than 50 goals in a season and appeared vulnerable against high-pressure situations. In contrast, Gabriel’s involvement has brought a new level of confidence and resilience to the back line, with opponents now approaching Arsenal with trepidation.
Characteristics of a Top Defender
What makes Gabriel stand out is not just his physical attributes but also his reliability. His emotional and physical leadership has been crucial in allowing Arsenal to maintain an aggressive, front-foot style of play. The partnership between Gabriel and William Saliba is pivotal, offering a solid foundation for manager Mikel Arteta to build a potential title-winning team.
As both Lineker and Shearer have noted, Gabriel’s presence has not only fortified the defense; he has transformed the overall atmosphere among fans, providing a sense of assurance unlike before. This evolution places him in a unique category among current defenders.
