Wayne Rooney has told Monday Night Football on Sky Sports that Arsenal defender Gabriel was at fault for Crystal Palace’s first goal – his “risky” defending coming into question. Palace stunned Arsenal, winning 3-0.
Gabriel, 24, has become a crucial part of Mikel Arteta’s side of late – forming a rock-solid partnership with Ben White. He has helped the Gunners keep 13 clean sheets in 26 Premier League games, as Arsenal look to win fourth.
But on Monday night, Gabriel was all over the place. Bullied by Jean-Philippe Mateta according to Chris Sutton, the defender was at fault for Mateta and Palace’s opener according to Rooney.
Analysing Arsenal’s defending at half-time for Palace’s opening goal, Rooney blamed Gabriel for his “risky” defending from Conor Gallagher’s free-kick. The Derby manager questioned the Brazilian’s movement.
“If you watch Gabriel now, he’s always got a clear view of the ball, and then he takes a little step and gets underneath the ball and can’t get to it. I think he has to do better, it means he is on the back foot. It’s risky,” Rooney said.
Rooney on Gabriel: Arsenal star is beginning to show cracks in defence
The £25million (Goal) signing has been a good one, since he joined from Lille in 2020. Some solid performances last season have been made even better, alongside White. But of late, Gabriel’s form is beginning to dip.
A couple of mistakes in the 3-2 win over Watford and now, another bad night at Palace. If Arsenal are to beat Tottenham and finish in fourth, they need their players playing at their best – which is being seen at Spurs.
Even the likes of Matt Doherty is playing a starring role under Antonio Conte. Arsenal’s momentum feels as though it is beginning to fade, as Tottenham’s grows. Gabriel needs to sort out his form as soon as possible.
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