Keown claims Gabriel is already 'a legend of the football club'
Martin Keown does not think Gabriel needs any more time to earn his place among Arsenal's greats, he believes the Brazilian has already got there. The former Gunners defender has hailed his compatriot as a leader and a legend after another commanding display in Arsenal's 2-0 win over Everton at the weekend, a match in which Gabriel got on the scoresheet himself.
Speaking via Football365, Keown did not hold back in his assessment of the centre back, who is now into his sixth season at the Emirates.
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"Gabriel is into his sixth season at Arsenal now and this guy is just a machine," Keown said. "You rarely see a striker get the better of him. I've seen him mature a lot and become the leader at the back."
A transformation into a defensive leader
Gabriel arrived at Arsenal as a raw, athletic centre back and has steadily developed into one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League. Keown's comments point to a clear evolution, not just in Gabriel's physical battles with opposing strikers, but in his organisation and command of Arteta's back line.
That maturity has been on show again this season, with Gabriel continuing to combine defensive solidity with an increasingly important attacking threat from set pieces. His goal against Everton was another example of his ability to decide matches at both ends of the pitch, a trait that has become something of a trademark during his time in north London.
Keown highlights the bond with supporters
Beyond the numbers and the duels won, Keown also pointed to the relationship Gabriel has built with the Arsenal faithful.
"He just loves defending and the fans just buzz off him," Keown said. "He's a legend of the football club now."
That connection has been evident on matchdays for some time, with Gabriel's combative style and visible passion for the badge endearing him to supporters in a way that few defenders manage. Keown's praise simply puts into words what many inside the Emirates already feel.
With Gabriel continuing to perform at this level across both boxes, he looks set to remain one of the first names on Arteta's team sheet as Arsenal push forward across all competitions this season.
