Arsenal’s new boy Gabriel Magalhaes explained why he ended up at Emirates Stadium this summer after his signing from Lille was official yesterday.
The Gunners did well to sign the young Brazilian, who looked like an incredibly impressive player in Ligue 1 last season to attract a lot of interest this summer.
In addition to having Arsenal in place, Corriere dello Sport has also connected Gabriel with Manchester United and Napoli, the player himself says Mikel Arteta has made a difference.
Speaking on Arsenal’s official website, Gabriel explained that he had already spoken to Gunners leader Edu, but that a non-public call from Arteta is the explanation for why he is now in north London.
“[Edu and I] had several discussions about Arsenal and the new project, we had a lot of conversations,” he said.
“As the days went by, I was very excited about it, and then he gave me a call from the coach and it was very reassuring.
“The fact that the coach calls you himself to tell you that he needs you to be on his team motivates you a lot. That is the true explanation for why I am here today.
“We didn’t communicate about [details], he just told me that he was aware of my quality, my talents and how far I can go.He also said it wouldn’t be too easy for me.
“I know he’s a wonderful coach and I’m going to progress with your help.
AFC enthusiasts will be extremely happy that their coach has helped them conclude this exciting agreement, and Gabriel seems to have the chance to be one of the game’s most productive central defenders.
Man Utd also lacks better defenders and would also have benefited from the arrival of the 22-year-old at the expense of one of his 4 most sensitive rivals.
In fact, Napoli will also feel that they may have ended up with a reinforcement in this branch after a complicated season last season, and has proven to be a smart springboard club for talented young players like Gabriel.