Arsenal Invincibles legend blasts Gabriel Magalhaes critics in passioned defence

Gilberto Silva manned Arsenal’s midfield alongside Patrick Vieira during their 2003/04 invincible season and has now come to the defence of current Gunner and compatriot Gabriel Magalhaes

Gilberto Silva has rushed to defend any criticism that in-form Arsenal centre-half Gabriel Magalhaes faces.

The Brazilian warrior has started the season well under Mikel Arteta, scoring a winner in the north London derby away to bitter rivals Tottenham and a header that almost saw them snatch three points at title challengers Manchester City.

However, since he arrived from Lille in 2020, Gabriel has earned some criticism. Some have viewed him as far inferior to defensive partner William Saliba and are quick to slate any errors that the man from Sao Paulo makes.

Gilberto, whose middle-of-the-park exploits alongside Patrick Vieira helped guide Arsenal to their invincible 2003/04 season under Arsene Wenger, refuses to believe that such slander is warranted, though, and has condemned those who don’t rate the 26-year-old.

“He’s super respected within the group, at the club, among the fans,” Silva told MyBettingSites.co.uk. “Man, people who can talk a little deeper can understand how valuable he is to the club today. He’s also been very balanced in the offensive sector and has been a standout at important moments.

“Today, he’s one of the main defenders in the squad and also in the Brazilian national team. In my opinion, those who don’t want to see it, just don’t see it. I think he’s evolved a lot. Defensively, he’s been constantly improving his game and his style of play."

Gilberto also commented on the way that the Gunners’ goalscoring centre-half is perceived in the media, adding: “Sometimes, man, I’ve seen that myself in England.

Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images) Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

"As a Brazilian player, if you show results on the field, you can become the darling of the international media. But if you don’t perform up to expectations, you’ll often be underestimated, until you’re playing well.

"So that’s it, I’ve experienced that and I understand it very well, but of course the cool thing is that you don’t have to worry about that, because I think it’s more important for him to stay focused.”

Gabriel's partner at the back, the impervious Saliba, was also the subject of praise from Silva, who believes the two make for the most talented pair in the Premier League.

“In my opinion, I believe they are the best duo in the Premier League,” Silva admitted. “The combination of the two is complementary, one complements the other with different characteristics.

"Their physical and technical skills encompass all the attributes that good defenders need," he claimed. "The sector is very well served this season.”

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