Joao Pedro has recently named Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes as the toughest opponent due to his underrated speed, and this could be of serious use versus Paris Saint-Germain’s attack.
The Brazilian international has been one of the best players in Europe, and it will come as no surprise to hear his rivals naming him as their toughest opponent.
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However, to hear Pedro highlight his speed as an aspect of his game, which is so impressive, certainly does come as a shock.
The 28-year-old is not known for being the quickest; however, his fellow countryman has admitted his pace is surprisingly impressive, and this could now be of real use against PSG in the Champions League final.
Joao Pedro was shocked by Gabriel Magalhaes’ speed
Joao Pedro has said he cannot believe how fast Gabriel Magalhaes is, and the Chelsea attacker has spoken very highly of the Arsenal star.
The Arsenal defender is undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the world at the moment and is going to be a contender for most of the Player of the Season awards.
But to hear Pedro highlight his pace as one of the key things he noticed when facing the Arsenal star comes as quite a shock.
When asked who the best player he has faced this season, Pedro told TNT Sports Brasil: “Man, Magalhaes, I’m surprised by his speed, but I gave him trouble. Yeah. I think Magalhaes is inspired this season.”
At six foot three, it’s so impressive for someone so tall to be as quick and explosive as Gabriel, which makes him such an elite-level defender.
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Following a hugely successful season at Arsenal, the Brazilian defender will now be hoping to take his form into the World Cup for Selecao.
Gabriel Magalhaes’ speed could be key vs PSG’s attackers
Paris Saint-Germain have one of the most feared attacking front threes in Europe in Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembele and Desire Doue.
What makes all three players so good and PSG’s attack so unpredictable is their blistering pace, which the Gunners will need to be prepared for.
Having faced them in the Champions League semi-final last season, Arsenal will be well aware of this and Mikel Arteta must produce a plan to counter it.
But as Pedro has highlighted, Gabriel’s pace could be key towards stopping the trio during the final in Budapest on May 30.
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