William Saliba sums up Gabriel Magalhaes in just one word after Arsenal goal vs Man City

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Gabriel Magalhaes was able to make a huge impact at both ends of the pitch for Arsenal against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon.

A late Manchester City goal at the Etihad Stadium meant that Arsenal only claimed a point in this latest Premier League clash between these two title-chasing sides.

Mikel Arteta’s side carried a first half lead into the break, after Riccardo Calafiori’s controversial strike cancelled out Erling Haaland’s opener. 

Arsenal’s set-piece prowess then came to the fore again, when Gabriel Magalhaes met with a corner at the far post to nod the North London club ahead. 

However, the game changed when Leandro Trossard was sent off for delaying a restart on the stroke of half-time. Arteta then set up his outnumbered side to defend in the second half.

Gabriel, Calafiori, William Saliba, Jurrien Timber, and goalkeeper David Raya, along with the rest of their teammates, soaked up a huge amount of pressure after the break. Micah Richards commended Arsenal for their defensive efforts. 

However, their resistance was broken by John Stones’ 98th minute equaliser.

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William Saliba hails Arsenal partner Gabriel Magalhaes after Man City

Whilst the Gunners will have been bitterly disappointed not to claim victory, Arteta will still be proud of the performance that his players produced in such trying circumstances.

After the match, Gabriel took to Instagram and said: “Massive effort from the boys!! Happy to score and help the team! Thanks for your support Gunners!! We go again.”

Saliba was quick to respond to this post, calling the Brazilian a “boss.”

Declan Rice also replied, stating: “U are too good.” There were also responses from Jurrien Timber and Arsenal legend Gilberto Silva.

Gabriel and Saliba underline world-class credentials

Gabriel and Saliba have been called the best centre-back partnership in the Premier League before now, and lived up to that billing with their display against Manchester City, particularly in the second half. 

Whatever success Arteta’s side might go on to achieve this season will owe a great deal to the consistently solid platform provided by this duo.

Raya has also impressed Arsenal fans in recent weeks, as the Spanish shot-stopper has become every bit as reliable as the defensive partnership that has established itself ahead of him.