Gabriel doesn t know how to attack from set pieces yet at Lille; Arsenal s tactics help him

Hupu reported on November 8 that the French media L’Equipe wrote a column on Arsenal defender Gabriel.

(He once played for Lille)

The 27-year-old Brazilian player is the only non-goalkeeper player in the team who has maintained full attendance in the league. He has shown dominant defensive abilities, with an average success rate of 66% per game (according to Opta statistics, this is his highest record since joining Arsenal in 2020).

In addition, with his excellent aerial advantage, he has also become the team's main threat when winning free kicks at corner kicks and near the opponent's penalty area.

Since this summer, Gabriel has contributed 2 goals and 3 assists in all competitions, becoming the main pillar of the defense.

When asked why Gabriel is now so dominant in and outside the penalty area, two names always come up: his personal fitness consultant Andre Cunha, who specializes in nutrition and recovery, and Arsenal's renowned set-piece expert Nicolas Joffe.

Because before joining the Gunners in 2021, the former Lille player did not really show any obvious offensive ability.

"He headed the ball well and knew how to use his elbow, but what I remember most is his attack from the back with his left foot and his courage when he took the ball," said former full-back Jeremy Pied, who played alongside Gabriel at Lille from 2018 to 2020.

Jofer has clearly convinced Gabriel of his potential as a shooter and devised a few combinations that will take full advantage of his strengths.

"Almost every corner kick, Gabriel starts from the penalty spot and moves towards the goal post, which allows him to accelerate and jump very high because he is 1.90 meters tall and has great coordination," explained Pascal Grosbois, a coach who specializes in such attacks and has coached Angers and other Ligue 2 clubs and is in touch with Joffe.

"The reason why this tactic is so effective is because Gabriel's teammates will set up a wall for him to prevent the goalkeeper from attacking."