Opinion

Arsenal’s best player became even more obvious in the 57th minute vs Crystal Palace

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Everything is clicking for Arsenal this season, but one player has stood out above the rest with his contribution.

Mikel Arteta can sit back and reflect on matchday nine with a smile, as Arsenal took advantage of Liverpool and Manchester City’s defeats.

The Gunners now sit four points clear at the top of the Premier League table, maintaining yet another clean sheet.

David Raya could run away with the Golden Glove trophy this season, and the goalkeeper has those ahead of him to thank, particularly Gabriel Magalhaes.

Gabriel Magalhaes celebrates during an Arsenal game
Photo by Alex Burstow/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Gabriel Magalhaes proved he is Arsenal’s best player during Crystal Palace victory

Arsenal fans are running out of superlatives to describe Gabriel, who has been hailed as the most influential player in the Premier League right now.

There’s something so special about the Brazilian, who is not only a remarkable defender but is a threat in the final third too.

In the 57th minute of Arsenal’s win against Palace, it looked as though the hosts would add to their lead, as Gabriel went from defensive extraordinaire to a playmaker.

The 27-year-old played an inch-perfect ball into the path of Leandro Trossard, who broke through on goal.

Nothing came from the chance; however, the opportunity wouldn’t have even arisen if it weren’t for the centre-back.

We know Gabriel is unstoppable from set-pieces, and we know he is one of the best defenders in Europe, but he’s now showing himself to be quite the creator.

Fans have seen the difference Riccardo Calafiori can make going forward while playing in defence, and now, it’s clear that the trait is another strength Gabriel has added to his game.

Right now at Arsenal, there’s nothing that the Brazil international can’t do, making him the rightful recipient of the title of the Gunners’ best player.

Arsenal v Crystal Palace - Premier League
Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Gabriel was an immovable force against Palace

Aside from his incredible ball-playing qualities against Palace, Gabriel was, before anything else, a monstrous figure at the back.

When William Saliba was forced to be substituted due to injury, the Brazilian’s standards did not slip, with Gabriel’s presence causing Palace real problems.

Gabriel Magalhaes vs Crystal Palace
9 defensive actions
100% ground duels won
50% aerial duels won
1 big chance created
90% pass completion
105 touches
1x hit woodwork
Gabriel Magalhaes vs Crystal Palace – Sofascore.

Recording 105 touches on the ball, the centre-back didn’t shy away from the challenge, instead becoming the protagonist of the fixture.

Gabriel contributed with nine defensive actions and almost added to his goal tally, striking the woodwork.

Considering that Arsenal were wary of the defender’s fitness before the match, it was a truly remarkable showing from their number six.