Arsenal centre-half Gabriel laid his body on the line on more than occasion on Saturday as the Gunners kept a clean sheet against Brighton.
The 23-year-old actually lost one of his own teeth in a challenge with a Seagulls player, demonstrating his commitment to the cause.
Since returning from a knee injury last month, many fans on Twitter believe Gabriel has been the club’s best player:
He's been great since he joined us.
— Tim 👽 (@Tim__afc) October 3, 2021
22 million, absolute bargain
— Seb (@AfcSeb1) October 3, 2021
He is a warrior, he compliments white very well. That back 4 looks good
— Otubaga Jokotade (@slimomotee) October 3, 2021
He’s been great and showing more leadership on the pitch. He, White, and Saliba would be a great core.
— Ed (@catlike1) October 3, 2021
Gabriel is consistent this season.. hope he stays fit
— MØ8 (@ogollah04) October 3, 2021
He has improved hugely in his game unlike last season, giving the back line a balance with and without the ball. So far so good he is a rock.
— Ofiawulagu (@Ofia_90s) October 3, 2021
We’re seeing the Gabriel that bossed it at Lille, except he’s doing it in a better league
Consistency is the key for him and Ben White now
There’s nothing stopping them from being the best partnership we’ve had since Campbell and Toure— Its Dark but ArsenalW Are Not (@rpembs14) October 3, 2021
Gabriel is developing a very good understanding with centre-back partner Ben White, and it seems they complement each others’ game very well.
The Brazilian, though, has been the standout performer out of the two, and his ability to command the backline has helped bring some much-needed organisation to the defence.
Of course, the Gunners will have to keep up these strong defensive displays for more than a few weeks, but the signs are good that, with Gabriel in the side, they can continue to keep out the opposition on a regular basis.