After Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with ten-man Fulham at the Emirates on Saturday, Ian Wright believes ‘fans are worried’ because Gabriel Magalhaes isn’t starting.
Mikel Arteta chose to keep Gabriel Magalhaes on the bench for the third Premier League game in a straight, with his only start coming against Manchester City in the Community Shield.
Arsenal eventually conceded a late equalizer against Fulham, and Wright stated that if Gabriel had been on the field, he would have handled it since he is the ‘organiser,’ as he told Premier League Productions (26/08/23 at 8:20 pm).
The Gunners conceded early in another game at the Emirates and failed to retain a clean sheet, even during their opening-day victory over Nottingham Forest.
Manchester City are the best example of a squad that wants to win the Premier League title because they have yet to concede a goal this season.
In any case, Wright discussed Arsenal’s sluggish start to games and the treatment of Gabriel, who was a significant element of the club last season.
After Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with ten-man Fulham at the Emirates on Saturday, Ian Wright believes ‘fans are worried’ because Gabriel Magalhaes isn’t starting.
“A little concerned (about Arsenal conceding early goals),” Wright admitted. “There is some sloppy play. I believe they should tighten up towards the start of games.
“There were times during the game when I was nervous for us.” We don’t seem to be as confident in handling the game as we got back into it with a 2-1 lead as I thought we could have been.
“I think that’s a little concerning because things do happen.” I know the supporters are upset about Gabriel not playing, but he provides us solidity in there, and when they score at the end from a corner, it’s something our big defender would be there for. As I previously stated, there is no Gabriel to serve as that organizer.”
Will Gabriel leave Arsenal?
The transfer speculation mill has highlighted Gabriel’s name, with rumours that the 25-year-old could leave this summer.
Gabriel has been a fixture in Arsenal’s backline, but it appears that William Saliba and Ben White have surpassed him in the pecking order.
It’s acceptable if Saliba is ahead of the Brazil star, but some would claim that White, Jakub Kiwior, and Rob Holding are above him, or even behind him if Saliba leaves.
