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Arsenal defender Gabriel Paulista has called for calmness in the squad after the shock defeat to Olympiakos, as the Gunners must focus on this weekend’s tie with Manchester United.
The Gunners lost 3-2 to the Greek side on Tuesday, their first victory on English soil, leaving Arsenal with two defeats from their first two Champions League matches for the first-time under Arsene Wenger; who celebrates 19 years at Arsenal today.
A media inquest has begun against Arsenal’s struggles in Europe but Brazilian defender Gabriel has urged the squad to remain calm. Speaking to the Gunners official website, he said:
“It was a complicated night [against Olympiacos]. We were in a good place in the first half, defending well, we were happy. But the three goals were our own fault.”
“We only have ourselves to blame for conceding them and now we have to rest, work harder, and then on Sunday come back and have a good game.”
“We just need to be calm. We have to work hard and focus on putting in a good performance [against Manchester United].”
“I am sad that we lost an important game at home. But we can still qualify. We have a very strong team, with some very good players. We now have to try to win the remaining matches in the group.”
Arsenal face a stern test against Manchester United, who currently sit top of the Premier League table with three consecutive victories.
Laurent Koscielny’s hamstring injury means Gabriel is likely set to partner Per Mertesacker in the heart of defence, as Arsenal look for their first clean sheet in five matches.
