Marco Silva was a disappointed man after Arsenal beat Fulham.
The Gunners had temporarily dropped to second in the Premier League table after Manchester City’s victory earlier in the day. A draw would’ve been enough to get back on top, but Mikel Arteta’s men only wanted a win.
After a tough first half in which Riccardo Calafiori was the best player, Arsenal took the lead through Leandro Trossard in the 58th minute of the game.
The Belgian will be credited with the winner, but Silva believes another player is the reason why Arsenal scored – Gabriel Magalhaes.
Marco Silva admits Arsenal star Gabriel Magalhaes was ‘impossible to stop’ for Fulham
Gabriel is one of the best defenders in world football.
The Brazil international has been incredible for the Gunners over the last few years, and he was once again integral against Fulham at Craven Cottage.
Every time Arsenal win a corner, all eyes are on Gabriel because he is the biggest threat.
The former Lille man didn’t score on Saturday, but he managed to flick the ball to Trossard after an incredible leap to meet Bukayo Saka’s corner.
The ball landed on the Belgian’s knee, and he made no mistake with his finish.
After the game, Fulham boss Marco Silva hailed Gabriel.
He said on BBC Match of the Day: “Gabriel jumps so high, it’s impossible to stop him. It’s very difficult to control.
“The way we tried to block his run, most of the game, we did it very well. We were too open and left the path for Gabriel. We didn’t want him to run in that part. Any flick is very difficult to control at the back post.”
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty ImagesGabriel and Arsenal’s defenders impressed at the back again
Trossard’s goal was enough for Arsenal to win the game because their defenders conceded nothing again.
Fulham didn’t even have a shot on target against the Gunners, which is an incredible achievement considering how dangerous they are at home.
Arsenal have extended their remarkable defensive run this season. They have now conceded just three goals in their first 11 games in all competitions – the best record in the club’s history.
Gabriel is a big part of the backline, and he led his fellow defenders brilliantly again on Saturday.
If Arsenal remain this solid at the back, it will be almost impossible to stop them this term.