How Gabriel's arrival at Arsenal could boost Tierney, Leno and Pepe

Gabriel Magalhaes has joined Arsenal from Lille, but who will be boosted by his arrival? Dan Mountney looks at three members of Mikel Arteta's squad who will be delighted to see the Brazilian arrive at the Emirates.



How Gabriel's arrival at Arsenal could boost Tierney, Leno and Pepe

Gabriel Magalhaes is finally an Arsenal player. CREDIT: ARSENAL


Kieran Tierney

A key reason as to why Gabriel was chosen as Arsenal's top defensive target was the fact he's left-footed.

Mikel Arteta has been desperate to add a left-footed defender to operate on that side of a back two or three, and he now seems to have got his man.

Kieran Tierney had been playing in that role at the back end of the season, but Gabriel's arrival means he can move back to left-back where he is far more effective.

The Scot's delivery and driving runs are a key attacking asset for the Gunners and he will be pleased to return his natural position.

Bernd Leno

The German goalkeeper was often left unguarded last season as Arsenal struggled defensively, but Gabriel's defensive stats should fill him confidence.

The 22-year-old ranked in the top seven for most defensive stats in Ligue 1 last season and seems like a solid addition to the backline.

The Lille man as all the attributes to be a modern central defender and could well provide Bernd Leno with a lot more protection next season.

Nicolas Pepe

Gabriel becomes the second player to move from Lille to Arsenal in the last 12 months after Pepe's arrival last summer, and a familiar face could help the Ivorian continue his adaptation.

The pair played together at the Stade Pierre Mauroy and after a tough first season at the Emirates, a former teammate could be just what the club-record signing needs to help him kick on next season.

This will also be a boost for Gabriel too as Pepe's presence should help him settle in England.


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  1. markymark

    Sep 01, 2020, 19:52 #117106

    If you replace the name Bernd Leno with Emiliano Martínez I’d be very happy