Mikel Arteta speaks on Gabriel Magalhaes speculation

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has clarified that Gabriel Magalhaes’ exclusion from the starting line-up has nothing to do with the ongoing speculation over his future.

The Brazilian has been a key player for the Gunners over the past two seasons. After starting 73 consecutive top-flight games, he was recently on the bench against Wolves.

The centre-back did not make the starting line-up against Crystal Palace either, but Arteta has insisted that the decision was purely tactical based on the opposition.

The manager added to praise Gabriel’s impact in both games. He said that the Brazilian was ‘really good’ against Palace where he absolutely dominated the box after he came on.

He told Arsenal.com: “Nothing at all, it’s about games that we were expecting, how we were going to defend and attack and what I believe is the best thing.”

“He’s played in both games and helped us to win both games for different reasons. He was really good today, he absolutely dominated the box when he came on and he’s going to play a lot of games. That’s the decision sometimes.”

The 25-year-old came onto the pitch yesterday after Takehiro Tomiyasu’s unfortunate sending off. He made an immediate impact with his presence in the box.

Magalhaes blocked two shots on goal alongside one tackle and one clearance. He also won one ground duel and calmed the nerves with his defensive contributions.

There is no denying that the huge importance of the centre-back in the squad. He will be hoping to reclaim his starting spot in Saturday’s outing against Fulham.

Arsenal are currently one of three clubs including Manchester City and Brighton & Hove Albion, who have won their first two games of the new Premier League season.

They host the Cottagers in another London derby this weekend before the much-awaited clash against Manchester United also at home before the international break.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com