Gabriel Magalhães Hailed as One of the Best Defenders in the World After Arsenal’s Champions League Win

Gabriel Magalhães best defender

(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Ex-Premier League star Nigel Reo-Coker hails Gabriel Magalhães as one of the best defenders after Arsenal’s 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid.

Arsenal’s £27 million centre-back Gabriel Magalhães has earned high praise after a dominant display in the Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid,
His performance, which included a goal and an assist, drew global attention, with former Premier League midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker calling him “one of the best defenders in the world.”

Gabriel Magalhães opened the scoring for Arsenal and later provided an assist in their emphatic 4-0 win over Atletico Madrid.
His commanding presence at both ends of the pitch demonstrated why Mikel Arteta sees him as one of the pillars of this Arsenal team.

Buy Arsenal's 2025–26 Home Kit through the ArsenalTalks Shop

Arsenal 2025–26 Home Kit

Click this link to buy the new 2025–26 Arsenal home kit through our ArsenalTalks Shop.

Speaking on CBS Sports after the match, Nigel Reo-Coker praised both Gabriel and Arsenal’s transformation this season.

“For me, Arsenal have taken it to another level this season,” said the former West Ham and Aston Villa midfielder.
“Gabriel Magalhães has been immense — he’s playing like one of the best defenders in world football right now.”

Gabriel has seven goals since the start of last season, which is an exceptional tally for a centre-back, and he remains Arsenal’s most dangerous aerial threat from set pieces.

Beyond his attacking contributions, Gabriel’s defensive influence has been just as crucial.

Arsenal have conceded only three goals in their last 12 matches, keeping four consecutive clean sheets. Gabriel’s strength, anticipation, and leadership have been vital in maintaining that defensive solidity.

His composure under pressure and ability to read the game have earned admiration from fans and pundits across Europe.

Recognition Across Europe

Gabriel’s standout display against Atletico Madrid further strengthened his growing reputation on the continental stage.

Since joining Arsenal from Lille in 2020, he has emerged as one of modern football’s most complete defenders, combining tactical awareness, technical ability, and physical dominance.

With Arsenal now emerging as genuine Champions League contenders, Gabriel’s consistency at the back remains a cornerstone of their European campaign.

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have built their success on a strong defensive foundation, and Gabriel Magalhães is at its heart.

His partnership with William Saliba has become one of the most formidable pairings in Europe, giving Arsenal stability, confidence, and control in high-pressure situations.

If Gabriel maintains his current form, he could soon be regarded as one of the world’s best players, having been a regular starter for Brazil’s national team.

Nigel Reo-Coker’s glowing remarks reflect the growing recognition of Gabriel Magalhães’ world-class performances.

As Arsenal continue their unbeaten Champions League run, Gabriel’s leadership and quality at the back are proving essential to their European ambitions.

Leave your vote

Want more Arsenal updates? Visit our homepage.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings

    Log In

    Forgot password?

    Forgot password?

    Enter your account data and we will send you a link to reset your password.

    Your password reset link appears to be invalid or expired.

    Log in

    Privacy Policy

    Add to Collection

    No Collections

    Here you'll find all collections you've created before.

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.