Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has lauded Gabriel Magalhães for his decisive defensive intervention against Manchester United in last season’s Premier League clash, describing it as a “magic moment.”
The Brazilian defender played a pivotal role in Arsenal’s dramatic 3-1 victory at the Emirates, a match sealed with late goals from Declan Rice and Gabriel Jesus. However, it was Gabriel’s subtle yet vital defensive awareness that helped keep the Gunners in the game at a crucial juncture.
United substitute Alejandro Garnacho appeared to have secured a late winner for the visitors in the 88th minute, racing past Arsenal’s backline to score past Aaron Ramsdale. The away end erupted in celebration, but VAR overturned the goal for offside.
Replays revealed the marginal nature of the decision, with United manager Erik ten Hag voicing his frustration post-match, insisting the goal should have stood. However, Gabriel’s quick thinking and body control proved decisive. The centre-back was caught on camera halting his forward momentum just enough to ensure Garnacho was offside, creating the gap required to nullify United’s likely winner.
Reflecting on the moment during his pre-match press conference ahead of Arsenal’s Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Crystal Palace, Arteta highlighted Gabriel Magalhães brilliance as an example of the type of “magic moments” he wants his players to produce more frequently.
