Have Arsenal unearthed another gem?
Gabriel spent two-and-a-half-years at the Emirates
Just as his other appearances have done, Gabriel Paulista’s short cameo against Reading last weekend left the Arsenal faithful clamoring for more. The £11.3million man made joined the club as a bit of a panic buy, after Arsenal endured half a season with just two established centre backs. Gabriel was brought in to plug the hole and play a role when need be, but he looks increasingly more likely to secure a starting role with every performance.
Just over a month ago, I likened Gabriel to Arsenal great Martin Keown, and referred to him as a diamond in the rough. It was only fitting, because I think Arsenal have unearthed a real gem.
Gabriel flew under the radar at Villareal, where he was part of a back line that conceded just 17 goals after half the season (19 matches). In fact, when Gabriel joined Arsenal, Villareal was on a 18 match unbeaten run in the league. He had never been capped for his country, or even called up for that matter, despite his obvious talent, and he was allowed to go for a fairly low fee.
Let’s recap for a second; good player with massive potential with no international caps and a low transfer fee. Gabriel has “gem” written all over him. He has since earned his first call up into Dunga’s side, and although he didn’t feature he is quickly proving his ability.
His Arsenal career now spans 7 appearances, and he looks more and more like a future stalwart. I thought he was terrific against Reading, and showed what kind of player he will develop into. The 24 year old is as rough and tumble as they come, fantastically enthusiastic and tenacious in the tackle. He has a fair bit of pace as well, and standing at 6’1 he is about all you could ever ask in a centre back.
Everything is there for Gabriel to continue to grow. We should get another look at him this weekend, as he is expected to deputize for the injured Per Mertesacker against Chelsea.
Gooners will be eagerly anticipating more Keown-esque tackles and another chapter in the developing Koscielny-Gabriel partnership. He is a diamond waiting to shine, and eventually the world will see what Gabriel is all about.