Arsenal defender Gabriel Magalhães says he expects a shift in fortunes this season after acknowledging the team has missed out on potential titles in recent years. Despite consistent progress under manager Mikel Arteta, the north London club has not lifted a major trophy since the 2020 FA Cup win during Arteta’s debut campaign in charge.
Gabriel, now 27, reflected on the narrow margins that have defined the club’s recent campaigns. “We gave everything over the last three seasons,” he told BBC Sport. “Sometimes things didn’t go our way, but we believe we can achieve major success.” He added that the squad remains fully committed to the coach’s vision and are optimistic about the upcoming season.
Setbacks in key moments
The Gunners have finished as runners-up in the Premier League for three straight years, while also falling short in two cup competitions last season. Their Champions League journey ended in the semi-finals against eventual winners Paris Saint-Germain, and they were also knocked out of the Carabao Cup at the same stage by Newcastle.
Injuries proved a major stumbling block for the team, particularly in attack. The likes of Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Gabriel Martinelli all endured extended absences. Gabriel Jesus also missed a significant portion of the season after suffering an ACL injury. These fitness issues left the squad short in forward positions, prompting midfielder Mikel Merino to take on an improvised role as centre-forward.
Bright spots and rising talent
Despite these obstacles, there were some positives. Merino managed seven goals in 28 Premier League appearances, including a crucial strike in a Champions League win over Real Madrid. While the team struggled for depth, this allowed young prospects to step up.
Academy graduates Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri seized their opportunities to impress. Lewis-Skelly has since made his England debut and committed to a long-term contract. Nwaneri, who scored nine times in 37 games, is also expected to extend his stay at the club.
As Arsenal begin their pre-season tour of Singapore and Hong Kong, the sense around the camp is one of cautious optimism. Gabriel summed it up by saying, “This season will be different.”
