Arsenal: Gabriel relying on his own brand of 'beautiful football' to win first trophy | OneFootball

Defender’s rule-bending approach may not be pretty to some, but it’s working

Arsenal have not won a trophy since the FA Cup in 2020, a couple of months before Gabriel signed for the club from Lille.

The Brazilian has gone on to become one of the very best centre-backs in the league, bringing a warrior spirit to the Arsenal defence.

"I think beautiful football is not only a beautiful pass, but also when you defend, the way you defend," Gabriel said.

"I try to bring energy to everyone and help my team-mates."

Gabriel has made 25 blocks in the Premier League this season. The next best for Arsenal is Declan Rice's total of 11.

The centre-back has made a habit of throwing his body in the way of danger, most recently against Bayer Leverkusen when he dipped his head down to block a Jarell Quansah shot with his throat.

"I cannot breathe after this," Gabriel said.

"Like I said, I tried to do my best and I gave everything for this badge. So my team-mates can see as well. If you see the block of [Riccardo] Calafiori against Everton, it was unbelievable.

"We try to do our best every time."

Arsenal are still in the hunt for an unprecedented quadruple this season.

The Carabao Cup final is followed by the international break, after which Arsenal face Southampton in the quarter-finals of the FA Cup and Sporting in the same stage of the Champions League.

Arsenal also sit nine points clear of City in the Premier League, leaving Gabriel to finally get his hands on a trophy as an Arsenal player.

"When I joined the club, the project was really good," he said.

"And yes, we know how big is Arsenal. Of course, I'm here to win trophies. Like I say, we learn a lot and now we have the opportunity."

Should Arsenal maintain their current form and end the season with multiple trophies, their players are likely to enjoy plenty of success when the individual awards are dished out.

With Gabriel enjoying a stellar season so far, the Brazilian is firmly involved in discussions for the player of the year award.

"To be honest, I don't listen too much to thing like this," Gabriel said.

"I need to stay humble and I just need to keep going, keep doing what I'm doing. And of course, I think this season is my best season in Arsenal.

"I think I just need to stay calm and let's see what happens in the end."