Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes has been one of the standout performers in helping Mikel Arteta's side stay top of the Premier League table so far.
The Gunners continued their amazing form with a superb 3-2 win against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday after beating Tottenham in the North London Derby a week earlier. Gabriel has had to adjust to a new centre-back partner in the shape of William Saliba this season, and the Arsenal duo have formed a strong partnership at the heart of the Gunners' defence.
Despite his brilliant form at club level, the Brazilian defender missed out on an call-up to Tite's Brazil squad in the most recent international break, casting doubt over his involvement at the 2022 World Cup in November. Gabriel was linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium in the summer transfer window with Juventus, as the Italian giants searched for a replacement for Matthijs de Ligt who joined Bayern Munich, but Arsenal priced the Serie A outfit out of a move for their star defender.
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In an interview with the official Arsenal website, Gabriel outlined his dream of playing for his country in the future and delivered a major verdict on Paris Saint-Germain superstar Neymar. The Gunners defender said: “It is, because when you’re called up for the national team, it’s a big step in your life.
"I certainly want to experience that again. I’m just trying to work hard here at Arsenal and I know the opportunities will follow.
“When you play for the national team, there’s a feeling that you’re representing your country and all the people that you see when you’re in your country. I think there’s no better feeling. It’s certainly every Brazilian player’s dream to wear the national team shirt.”
His passion to play for his country is just one of many driving factors behind his impressive form for the north London outfit and Gabriel is keen to link-up with one of his idols. “Since a young age, I’ve always enjoyed watching Neymar play,” he continued.
“We don’t play in the same position, but he’s certainly my idol. I’m still a big fan of his today. We haven’t played together yet, but I’ve been able to be together with him in training, and I spent some time with him when I was in the national team squad.
"I’m a big Neymar fan. I hope to get to play with him soon and he can set me up to score a header!”
It's unlikely that Gabriel will ever get the chance to play alongside his idol at club level, but the Brazilian is certainly enjoying life at the Emirates Stadium as he continues to push for a place in the Brazil national team.
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