Former Liverpool defender and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher has declared Arsenal centre-back Gabriel Magalhaes the "most influential player in the Premier League" following his decisive return from injury. The Brazilian defender scored the opening goal in Arsenal's commanding 4-1 victory over title rivals Aston Villa on Tuesday night, a result that sent a powerful statement in the championship race.
Gabriel's Immediate Impact After Injury Lay-Off
Gabriel made his first start for the Gunners since 8 November, having missed the previous six Premier League matches with a hamstring problem. His comeback was nothing short of spectacular. Early in the second half, his persistent pressure on Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez forced an error, allowing the 28-year-old to bundle the ball home and break the deadlock.
This goal underscored Gabriel's significant threat from set-pieces, taking his personal tally for the league campaign to two goals and two assists. His presence provided a platform for Arsenal's subsequent dominance, with the team cruising to a comprehensive win despite a late consolation goal from Villa's Ollie Watkins.
Carragher and Arteta Laud Defender's Influence
Speaking on Sky Sports, Carragher was emphatic about the Brazilian's importance. "Gabriel being back is huge. Before I’ve said that he’s the most influential player in the Premier League, and we’ve seen it again tonight," he stated. The pundit suggested the victory carried major psychological weight, adding: "It felt like more than three points... The feeling around the training ground tomorrow will be completely different."
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta echoed these sentiments in his post-match comments. He revealed that Gabriel had returned ahead of schedule from an injury expected to keep him out for eight weeks and praised his performance against the dangerous Watkins. "He composed himself against probably one of the best strikers in the league, who is very hard to mark. I thought he was tremendous," Arteta said.
Title Race Ramifications and What's Next
The result has substantial implications for the Premier League table. Arsenal now sit six points ahead of Aston Villa and five points clear of Manchester City, although Pep Guardiola's side retains a game in hand. Gabriel's contribution was formally recognised with the man-of-the-match award before he was substituted late on, a move not thought to be related to a fresh injury.
Before his lay-off, Gabriel had been a cornerstone of an Arsenal defence that kept seven clean sheets in 11 league matches. His seamless return solidifies a backline that will be crucial as the season reaches its climax. The Gunners' next fixture is an away trip to face Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday, 3 January.
