Opinion

Arsenal star’s brilliance against Burnley is being overlooked because of Declan Rice

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Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice rightfully earned the headlines against Burnley, but he wasn’t the only one to star.

Rice earned high praise from Arsenal fans after he scored against Burnley to deliver the Gunners three points.

It wasn’t only the Englishman’s goal that earned him the spotlight, but his all-around game, as the midfielder was on another level.

Though Rice was at his very best against Burnley, he wasn’t the only Arsenal player to heavily influence the game, as once again, Gabriel Magalhaes showed his worth.

Gabriel of Arsenal acknowledges the fans alongside team mates (L-R) William Saliba, Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard and Mikel Merino following the Premier League match between Burnley and Arsenal.
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Gabriel Magalhaes was so good for Arsenal against Burnley

Gabriel has arguably been Arsenal’s best player this season, not just for his defensive strength but for the threat he provides in the final third.

Though Rice earned the highest praise against Burnley, it’s important that Gabriel’s performance does not fall under the radar, as the Brazilian was an immovable force.

Gabriel vs Burnley
72 touches
1 assist
1 interception
9 clearances
93% pass completion
100% aerial duels won
100% ground duels won
1 foul drawn
Gabriel Magalhaes vs Burnley – Sofascore.

Not only did the centre-back add to his goal contribution tally by setting up Viktor Gyokeres’ goal, but he also put in a real shift at the back.

Winning every single one of the duels he was involved in, Gabriel was a force to be reckoned with and a player the Clarets, quite frankly, couldn’t contend with.

Having seen what the Brazil international produced at Turf Moor, Jamie Carragher’s claim that Gabriel is the most influential player in the Premier League right now was only strengthened.

Unbelievable Gabriel statistic increases

Gabriel was monstrous against Burnley, but as Rice was the protagonist, the defender’s display has naturally been overshadowed. 

What mustn’t be downplayed, however, is a record that Gabriel keeps adding to this season, a statistic that is borderline unbelievable.

Gabriel Magalhaes celebrates during Burnley v Arsenal in the Premier League.
Photo by Simon Stacpoole/Offside/Offside via Getty Images

Over 15 games this season, the 27-year-old has only conceded three goals along with the rest of the back four, which makes his goal contribution tally look even more incredible.

Remarkably, Gabriel has recorded more goal contributions than he has conceded this term, pushing his tally to five after claiming an assist against Burnley.

Arsenal fans are running out of words to describe Gabriel’s form this season, with even more praise warranted after the win at Turf Moor.