Brazilian centre-back, Gabriel Magalhaes, has put pen to paper for a long-term contract with Arsenal.
The defender, 27 years of age, joined from French Ligue 1 club Lille in September 2020 and has recorded 210 appearances in all competitions, emerging an essential member of the Gunners’ defensive unit as well as netting twenty (20) goals.
Since finding the back of the net on his debut away to Fulham on the opening day of the 2020/2021 Premier League season, Gabi has continued to be an attacking threat, scoring more Premier League goals than any other defender since joining Arsenal.
The Brazil international commenced his career with Avai in Santa Catarina in Brazil before making the move to France in January 2017, when he signed for Lille.
The defender spent period on loan with Troyes in Ligue 1 as well as Croatian side Dinamo Zagreb, where he clinched the domestic double in the 2017/18 season.
After more than two (2) years in England, Magalhaes signed a new contract to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium, marking his importance as an integral part of the squad.
His consistent displays helped him clinch a place in the 2023/24 PFA Team of the Year, a season that started with silverware as he lifted the Community Shield at Wembley following a penalty shootout triumph over Manchester City.
Magalhaes has been steady in the Gunners’ defence which has conceded the fewest goals in the last two Premier League campaigns.
Additionally, to his awesome defensive power, Magalhaes’ natural ability in scoring has brought immense happiness to Arsenal on many occasions, with his winner away to Tottenham Hotspur in September 2024 a particular highlight.
Gabriel Magalhaes’ new contract is subject to the completion of regulatory processes.
According to arsenal.com, after putting pen to paper for his new long-term contract with the Gunners, Magalhaes said: “I arrived here as a young player and after almost five years I’m so happy and I’ve learned a lot. I’m so proud of myself, it’s an amazing journey, and I’m so happy to continue it. I hope I win some trophies with this club, because I love this club and my family loves the club, too.
“Arsenal is an amazing club and I’m so proud to sign a new contract. I love this club, I love the supporters, my teammates, I love this stadium. I’m so proud and thank you for all the support. We continue together for the future.”
Photo: X/@Arsenal
