After committing his long-term future to the club with a new deal running until 2029, Gabriel Magalhaes says it’s time to start winning trophies with Arsenal.
The Brazil international, 27, has been a key component of the Gunners’ resurgence under Mikel Arteta, helping the club to three consecutive second-place finishes.
Signed from Lille in 2020, Gabriel was a little rough around the edges, both on and off the pitch, during his first 18 months at the club. But in the seasons since, he’s developed into one of the best centre-backs in the game, helped in no small part by his partnership with William Saliba.
Now rewarded with a new contract, one that reflects his standing in the squad, Big Gabi made clear that he’s hungry for more.
“It’s an amazing club and I’m so proud to sign a new contract. I love this club, I love the fans, my teammates, I love this stadium – I’m so proud and thank you for all the support,” he said.
“I arrived here as a young player, and [now it’s] almost five years at this club. I’m so happy, and I’ve learned a lot here. I’m so proud of myself, and as well, to have worn the captain’s armband sometimes in this club.
“I think it’s an amazing journey, and I’m so happy to continue this journey. I hope I win some trophies with this club, because I love this club, my family loves it.
“We’ve done a lot of good things, and now it’s time to win some trophies. I want to say thank you for everything. I love the fans, and I love how they push the team. I think they are so incredible to keep pushing us every single game. We continue together for the future.”
Arsenal are hopeful that several other big names will follow suit in the coming months. Chief among them: Bukayo Saka and William Saliba. Securing Gabriel’s future can only help in that effort.