Gabriel Magalhães said he was happy. His season in European football was ended with a missed penalty that defined the Champions League, with Arsenal’s defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, but the defender ensured that the frustration of the decision was left behind on the road to the World Cup.
“I have nothing to complain about,” said the 28-year-old Beque, remembering that his team won the English Championship. “I had a very good season with Arsenal, we won the title after 22 years. I’m very happy about that. Regarding the Champions League final, only those who take a penalty have consequences. I’m happy to be in the national team, representing my country. I have peace of mind.”
When he failed to take the final shot, on May 30, Magalhães was consoled by Marquinhos, from PSG. Days later, he introduced himself to the yellow-green group and met his opponent, now his defender partner in Brazil’s fight for the World Cup trophy, in North America.
“It was a moment of sadness for me. And the first thing he did wasn’t celebrate, he was to give me a hug. I can say that he gave me all the strength. I’ve been with him in the national team for two or three years, I’ve learned every time I’m with him. I’m a big fan of him as a person and as a player. My affection for him only increased after the Champions League final”, declared the São Paulo native.
What Magalhães now wants to do alongside Marquinhos is establish a solid defense. Brazil conceded goals in the last six matches they played and had many problems marking in the first round of the World Cup, against Morocco. The 1-1 draw, in the eyes of the athletes themselves, was cheap.
“We don’t want to concede goals, of course. We know that, if we don’t concede goals, we will be closer to victory. It’s work. We have to work collectively. We know how important it is not to concede goals and, certainly, we will enter the game with the thought of defending ourselves well and coming out victorious”, said Gabriel, referring to the duel with Haiti, on Friday (19), in Philadelphia.
“You can be sure that we talk a lot, every day. We know what we need to do. Mister [o técnico Carlo Ancelotti] He’s been talking to us too. We worked very well during the week and we know we have a big game ahead of us. We’re going with everything we can to win,” he added.
Magalhães said he was prepared for this task. He is at the end of a long season – there are already 55 games in 2025/26, between commitments at Arsenal and the national team. For this reason, it has been preserved from part of the national team’s activities, controlling the load and avoiding muscle problems.
“I’m very well physically. I had a very long season, with a lot of games, but I feel very good”, declared the player, who said he also seeks strength from the fans. Upon arrival in Philadelphia, the group was welcomed by celebrating fans. “It was incredible to feel that heat. Now, we just have to reciprocate that on the field.”
