Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta praised defender Gabriel Magalhaes after the 2-0 Premier League win over Everton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The Gunners secured a convincing victory over the Toffees yesterday. Ezri Konsa opened the scoring after just seven minutes from a corner. It was the club’s first set-piece goal of the season.
Arsenal continued to dominate proceedings until the break. The second half had a similar theme, and the Gunners eventually doubled their advantage from a fine Magalhaes header.
Ben White delivered a superb cross into the box for Magalhaes to find the back of the net.
Following the game, Arteta was asked about Magalhaes after his 200th Premier League appearance.
The Spanish tactician said he is ‘one of the best’ centre-backs in the world and believes he is unique compared to the rest of the squad, given his impact on both ends of the pitch.
He told Sky Sports (via BBC Sport): “I think he’s one of the best centre-backs in the world, no question, with the impact he has in both boxes. His leadership, his presence, what he offers to the rest of the boys is unique and we’re very happy to have him.”
Magalhaes had a fine all-round showing against the Toffees. Apart from his goal, he had 71 touches with a passing accuracy of 89 percent. He made eight clearances and won five duels.
The 28-year-old suffered a potential knee injury scare at the beginning of the second half, but he managed to overcome the concern before scoring a crucial goal for the Gunners.
Magalhaes scored his first goal of the campaign after some near misses earlier in the season. He will most likely be given a break during the Carabao Cup fourth-round tie at Fleetwood Town on Tuesday.
The Brazil international could be named among the substitutes if required, but Arteta may leave him out of the travelling squad to rest and prepare for next Sunday’s huge league game at Liverpool.
Stats from Sofascore.com