Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhaes says the club is ready to turn near-misses into silverware this season, declaring, “this year will be different”.
Despite consistent progress under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal haven’t won a major trophy since the 2020 FA Cup. They’ve finished second in the Premier League for three straight years and exited both the Champions League and Carabao Cup at the semi-final stage last season.
As the Gunners prepare for their pre-season tour of Singapore and Hong Kong, Gabriel reflected on missed opportunities and voiced optimism about what lies ahead. “We’ve done everything we could in the last few years. Maybe some bad luck, maybe some mistakes – but now we believe we can win,” he told BBC Sport.
Last season’s title bid was disrupted by long-term injuries to key players including Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Kai Havertz. Striker Gabriel Jesus also missed significant time with a knee injury, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino into an improvised forward role.
While Merino performed admirably – scoring seven goals and netting against Real Madrid – Arteta will be eager to avoid another season of makeshift lineups. However, the injury crisis did open the door for promising academy players Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri to break into the senior squad.
Arsenal have already strengthened their squad, bringing in Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. A deal for prolific Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres – who scored 54 goals last season-is also nearing completion.
Zubimendi, one of Europe’s most coveted midfielders, was pivotal in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph. Norgaard adds experience following the departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey. Madueke will offer depth behind Saka and Martinelli, while continuing his development under Arteta.
Gabriel is impressed with the new additions. “These players are coming in to make us stronger. To compete for titles, you need the best-and we’re building that,” he said.
Gabriel, who recently extended his contract until 2029, is recovering from a hamstring injury and is targeting full fitness by the start of the season. Despite rumors linking him to a Saudi move, he insists he’s focused solely on Arsenal’s goals.
“I’ve seen how far the club has come in five years. I’m here to win big titles – and I believe this is the season we do it.”
Arsenal open their Premier League campaign away at Manchester United on 17 August. They’ll face AC Milan and Newcastle in Singapore as part of their final pre-season preparations.
