Arsenal took their time but finally announced the signing of Gabriel Magalhaes from Lille on Tuesday. The Gunners reportedly forked out £23.14 million for the Brazilian defender who was highly sought after this summer (BBC).
Gabriel joins a number of other Brazilians at the Emirates. Technical director Edu played a big part in convincing his compatriot to make the move to Arsenal while the likes of David Luiz, Willian and Gabriel Martinelli will also help him settle in.
Nicolas Pepe knows him well thanks to their time together at Lille, which will certainly help Gabriel adjust to his new home quickly.
The Brazilian spoke about his compatriots and revealed that he has been a huge fan of one of them ever since he was a kid.
He told Arsenal digital: “For sure David is an example, he is a player I admire very much. I was always a big fan of him and everything he achieved. I watched him since I was a kid.
“I played video games with his character and today it is a dream come true to be here with him and hopefully play next to him soon. It is always good to have Brazilian players at the club to welcome me, it is very important for me. I don’t speak English very well and I will try to learn as fast as I can.
“Nicolas Pepe is also a good friend of mine, also David they messaged me and welcomed me, this is very important to me and makes me very happy. I cannot wait to meet the rest of the squad, Willian and Gabriel Martinelli too.”
Luiz is the perfect role model for Gabriel
Irrespective of what people think of Luiz, he has had a fine career. The Brazilian has won 22 trophies across Europe and he is a huge role model to the youngsters in his home country.
Gabriel is the long-term replacement for Luiz but, as long as they are together, he will learn a lot from his fellow countryman.
The former Chelsea star knows the Premier League as well as anybody and his influence will certainly help the Arsenal new boy develop both on and off the pitch.
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