Gabriel Magalhaes explains why Mikel Arteta made surprise decision at start of season

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Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes is having an outstanding campaign, but this season did not begin well for him.

The 26-year-old was surprisingly dropped from Mikel Arteta’s starting XI for the first three games of the season, with Thomas Partey playing at right-back and Ben White partnering William Saliba in the middle.

Many pointed towards Arteta exploring a new tactical style, whilst links also emerged between the defender and clubs in Saudi Arabia, as well as Juventus.

Gabriel eventually returned to the side, and given that he has been one of Arsenal’s best players this season, many questioned why he was even dropped in the first place.

Gabriel explains why he was dropped at the start of the campaign

Speaking via The Independent, Gabriel revealed that he had a conversation with Arteta when rumours emerged that he could leave, and the Spaniard decided it was better that he spent time out of the starting XI until he regained his focus.

“It was tough, obviously at the start. I wanted to play and it was very difficult for me but I understood what the coach had to do,” he stated.

“It is difficult for any player to not be in the team but now I’m back in I want to keep on working hard to prove my worth.

“He (Arteta) spoke to me and obviously explained the reasons behind the decision. Why I should stay – but the most important thing was to remain focused and concentrate – he knew how important I was to the team, so I’m happy to be back and to be able to help the team in every game.

“I’m happy to be back in the team and hopefully I can help them moving forward.”

Arsenal were right to keep Gabriel Magalhaes

Arsenal were justified in their decision to keep the centre-back, given his performances this season.

The Brazil International is arguably Arteta’s best signing, given the way he has developed during his time at the club.

His partnership with Saliba is now the best in the Premier League when it comes to preventing chances being created against his side, and whilst Saliba receives a lot of praise, Gabriel is perhaps just as important to Arteta.

After making several errors at the start of last season, Gabriel has been almost flawless in his performances, and there is a strong case to be made that he is currently Arsenal’s player of the season so far.