Arsenal defender Gabriel is gearing up for a tough encounter against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final. The Brazil international anticipates a significant challenge against the reigning champions. He has also requested the Arsenal fans to show their support at Wembley.
Gabriel Relishes Haaland Challenge
Gabriel is looking forward to facing City striker Erling Haaland. “I enjoy every game, every striker,” he said. “It’s my job, so I like to battle.”
He added, “He is a top player, and I think he likes to play against me as well. It’s fun— we enjoy it.”
Arsenal’s Determination to Win
Gabriel is determined to give his all to bring silverware back to the Emirates Stadium. “We want to win every game we play,” he said. “We know it’s going to be a big battle, but we are ready and we’ll try to win.”
Gabriel believes those experiences have hardened the squad. “We learned a lot in the past. We worked very hard,” he said. “The last three years we didn’t get it, but I think this year we started well. We are in a good moment. We just need to keep doing what we’re doing.”
“We finished second. We tried. Other teams are top teams too, with good players who have played together for years.”
Inspired by Defensive Greats
Gabriel said his style has been shaped by studying some of the game’s finest centre-backs. “I’ve watched a lot of defenders before,” he explained. “I learn a lot from players like Maldini, Cannavaro, Lucio, Thiago Silva and Marquinhos.”
Giving Everything for the Badge
Gabriel’s commitment was underlined during the first leg of Arsenal’s Champions League round of 16 tie against Bayer Leverkusen, when he blocked a goal-bound shot with his neck.
“I couldn’t breathe after that block, but I try to do my best and give everything for this badge,” he said.
Gabriel is aware of growing recognition but remains grounded. “I think this is my best season,” he said. “But I don’t listen too much to tal
Gabriel signed for Arsenal from Lille in September 2020, so missed out on their last trophy — the team lifted the FA Cup at the end of the preceding season.