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Rio Ferdinand heaps praise on Arsenal star Gabriel Magalhaes

By on September 3, 2025

gabriel magalhaes arsenal

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes following his consistent performances in recent years.

The 27-year-old moved to the Gunners from LOSC Lille back in 2020. Initially, he showcased glimpses of his qualities in the Premier League, but was rash at times and made high-profile errors.

However, since William Saliba’s installation at the back to pair up with the Brazilian, he has looked calm, composed, and excellent. Experience with growing age is another reason that Gabriel has become a more consistent performer.

He has established himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. Combined with his defensive prowess, his ability to chip in with important goals from the set-piece situations has made him an all-around player.

On his YouTube channel, Ferdinand praises Gabriel and says he enjoys watching the 27-year-old play because of his ‘aggressive’ nature. The former centre-back also notes that the Brazilian has greatly improved his game since joining Arsenal.

Ferdinand said:

“You know, actually, who I’ve been enjoying watching lately? Gabriel. He’s so aggressive. So aggressive. I watch him now, that’s the only part of his game that’s improved. There’s bits that have improved elsewhere, don’t get me wrong here, but he’s just eradicated silly, rash mistakes, which was holding him back. Experience time, patience for these guys. That’s what you need to give them. Let them flourish.”

Pundit lauds Gabriel

Having displayed his qualities in the Premier League, Gabriel, valued at around £65m by Transfermarkt, has established himself as a key player for the Brazil team.

After finishing second in the Premier League in the last three consecutive campaigns, the North London club are hoping to lift the league title finally this season.

They started the season with back-to-back victories over Manchester United and Leeds United, but narrowly lost to title challenger Liverpool last weekend. Therefore, they have already lost ground in the title race with the defending champions winning the first three games.

Arsenal will return to action against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League after the international break. The Champions League is set to commence from mid-September, so the fixture schedule will become congested.