'No excuses anymore': Arsenal's trusted centre-back fuels title ambition
Gabriel Magalhaes has denied rumours linking him with a move to Saudi Arabia and says his decision to sign a new contract at Arsenal was fuelled by belief in the club’s title ambitions this season.
The Brazilian defender extended his deal until 2029 last month, ending speculation that he could leave after interest from Saudi Pro League clubs.
Speaking ahead of the club’s pre-season tour, Gabriel said: “I didn’t hear anything personally. People say a lot online. I was focused on Arsenal — that’s why I signed the contract.”
He has now spent five years at the club and believes Arsenal are ready to turn near-misses into major trophies.
“I’m here to win big titles,” he said. “We’ve let a couple slip through our fingers, but I believe this year will be different.”
Arsenal have finished second in the Premier League for the past three seasons and last won a trophy in 2020.
“We can’t give excuses anymore,” Gabriel added. “We’ve done everything we could in recent years. We just lacked a bit of luck. But this season, we all believe we can win.”
The 27-year-old said manager Mikel Arteta played a key role in his decision to stay.
“I have only one thing to say, and Mikel said it: we are ready to reach new heights this season.”
Gabriel has returned to full training after missing the end of last season with a hamstring injury. He confirmed he is on track to be ready for Arsenal’s Premier League opener against Manchester United on 17 August.
“I’m improving a lot,” he said. “I’ve already been training really hard with the group and feel good to hit the ground running.”
Arsenal have added Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke to their squad, with more signings expected.
Gabriel welcomed the new arrivals and stressed the need for high standards. “We want the best players because we want to win trophies,” he said.
Asked what’s changed in him during his time at Arsenal, Gabriel pointed to maturity and leadership. “I believe I’ve grown a lot,” he said. “My leadership on the pitch has improved. I know I’m a role model for others in the squad.”
Arsenal face AC Milan, Newcastle and Tottenham during their pre-season tour of Singapore and Hong Kong.
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